Shelbyville, IL Daily Union, 6/29/15:
Cuts to devastate Amtrak service in Illinois
Governor Rauner has announced a 40% reduction in Amtrak funding to begin July 1. If implemented, at least half of Illinois-funded downstate trains will be discontinued, starting a dangerous downward spiral. Ridership will decline more quickly than costs, forcing ticket prices higher and driving away even more passengers.
Budget cuts to Amtrak are counterproductive, and will not improve the state’s fiscal situation. A more productive option would be for Governor Rauner and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to focus on reducing costs by taking tangible steps to increase revenue.
More here.