The completion of a $20 million upgrade of Ottumwa and Mt. Pleasant Amtrak stations in Iowa, in the American Midwest, was marked on Thursday, 28th May, by ribbon-cutting celebrations in both cities.

Attending the celebrations were Amtrak Vice President of Accessibility Dr David Handera and civic leaders from the two cities, which are served twice daily by Amtrak’s California Zephyr trains, which also stop at three other stations in Iowa.

The improvements were part of ensuring Amtrak stations comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and provide better integrated and comprehensive accessibility at stations across the USA. In the 12 months ending 30th September, 19 stations have been upgraded with another 50 stations planned for completion in the following 12 months, at a forecast cost of $310 million.

Mt. Pleasant station was built by the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad in 1912, whilst Ottumwa station was built in 1889, also by the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, but in 1950 it was demolished and rebuilt. An $5.5 million project at Mt. Pleasant station provided 480- and 600-foot-long concrete platforms, and a $14.5 million project at Ottumwa has provided a 1,000-foot-long concrete platform. Both stations also now have accessible paths with sloped accessible walkways and safety barriers from the station building. The upgrades also included energy-efficient LED light fixtures providing full coverage lighting at the platform, detectable warning systems, and new signage.

In April, Amtrak announced it had started the procurement process for its largest-ever order for new long-distance trains, and that Lewistown Station in Pennsylvania, the oldest station served by Amtrak, was to receive substantial improvements.

“Making stations accessible to all customers is a priority we’re actively pursuing with construction, renovation, repair and upgrade projects at stations across our National Network. We want all of our stations to provide a welcoming environment for every passenger.”

Dr David Handera, Amtrak Vice President of Accessibility

“Southeast Iowa families, veterans, seniors, and travellers with disabilities deserve rail stations that are safe, accessible, and modern. These upgrades at Mount Pleasant Amtrak Station are a real, tangible investment in our community and in the people who depend on this service every day. $19 million going directly into Iowa’s rail infrastructure means better connections, greater accessibility, and a stronger future for southeast Iowa. I’m proud to celebrate this milestone with Mount Pleasant and look forward to seeing the difference it makes for years to come.”

Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa1)