Newton preferred site for Amtrak expansion

(Tonkawa-AP) -- About 200 Amtrak supporters said at a meeting on future passenger rail service that they favor expanding Amtrak service north from Oklahoma City to Newton, Kansas. <br><br>That would

Friday, February 25th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Tonkawa-AP) -- About 200 Amtrak supporters said at a meeting on future passenger rail service that they favor expanding Amtrak service north from Oklahoma City to Newton, Kansas.

That would connect Amtrak to the national rail service, making it possible to go on to Los Angeles and Chicago. But State Senator Paul Muegge says the expansion to Newton needs backers if it is to become a reality. Muegge says the Tulsa route has more political support and has received more publicity.

It also has the support of eastern Kansas lawmakers. He told the group a task force with leaders from both states needs to be formed to get funding for the route. Passenger rail service was returned to Oklahoma last year with atrain running daily between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth, Texas. From there, travelers can connect to other routes.