Three U.S. senators are seeking support for capital improvements to Amtrak's long-distance routes, including one that passes through New Mexico and Colorado.
Sens. Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich of New Mexico and Mark Udall of Colorado have sent a letter to the chairman of an appropriations subcommittee that's considering funding for the U.S. Department of Transportation and other agencies that oversee Amtrak.
The senators say long-distance service is a critical link for small and rural communities.
Amtrak has said it would consider rerouting the Southwest Chief to a more southern route if no agreement is met on maintaining the current track, which links Chicago and Los Angeles.
Amtrak has suggested New Mexico, Colorado and Kansas share the costs of maintaining and improving more than 600 miles of track in those states.
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