Why Amtrak Does Not Serve Phoenix: Historical, Economic, and Infrastructure Factors
Introduction
Amtrak, the national passenger rail service in the United States, has a complex map of routes and stations it serves throughout the country. One of the significant questions often asked is, 'Why doesn’t Amtrak service Phoenix?' Understanding the historical, economic, and infrastructure factors shed light on why this major city lacks direct Amtrak service.
Historical Rail Routes
Historically, the development of railroads in the United States led to certain cities becoming major hubs, while others did not experience the same level of rail development. Phoenix, situated in a large and isolated desert region, did not evolve into a major rail hub. In comparison, bustling cities like Los Angeles and Chicago have prominent rail networks.
Existing Infrastructure
Amtrak operates on tracks owned by freight rail companies, and many routes are influenced by the availability and condition of these tracks. The infrastructure around Phoenix may not be ideal for passenger rail service, or there may not be sufficient demand to justify the establishment of such services. The track conditions, alignment, and maintenance requirements are all critical factors considered during route planning.
Population and Demand
Phoenix, being a large city, has historically had lower demand for long-distance rail travel compared to other transportation modes like cars and airplanes. Despite the growth of Phoenix, its residents and travelers predominantly opt for more convenient and faster alternatives, such as personal automobiles and commercial flights. This lower demand can influence Amtrak's decision-making process regarding the establishment of a direct service to Phoenix.
Competition with Other Modes of Transport
The Phoenix area is well equipped with an extensive highway network and a robust commercial airport. These alternatives often offer quicker and more direct travel options, making train service less appealing to the majority of travelers. The competition from automobiles and planes is intense, leading to lower interest in rail travel.
Economic Considerations
Economic factors significantly influence Amtrak's route planning. The company evaluates the profitability of each route, and the costs associated with establishing and maintaining service are critical. Operating a new service in Phoenix may not garner the expected ridership to justify the immense costs involved. The logistical and financial viability of such a route must be thoroughly analyzed before a decision is made.
The Current Amtrak Service in the Region
Currently, Amtrak's Sunset Limited runs a route through nearby Arizona cities. The train runs from El Paso, Texas, through Tucson, Yuma, Colton Yard, and finally into Los Angeles. This arrangement provides a framework for future expansion into Phoenix, if deemed feasible.
Future Possibilities for Amtrak in Phoenix
To restore direct service to Phoenix, significant infrastructure improvements would be necessary. The Union Pacific (UP) Phoenix Sub, located west of Phoenix, would need a substantial overhaul to meet Class One standards. This task would cost Union Pacific approximately $2 million per mile. However, the current state of the track, from Mile Post 979 northwest of Picacho to downtown Phoenix, is in good condition until Union Station. Once in downtown Phoenix, the track merges with the BNSF Phoenix Sub to Williams Junction, where it joins the BNSF Southern Transcon and the Seligman Subdivision—which are part of the Southwest Chief route. The Phoenix Sub from this point to Williams has Class One quality, but the segment from Union Station to Williams Junction requires upgrades. Additionally, the Grand Canyon Railroad operates in Williams, utilizing heritage units that are not equipped for Class One work, further complicating the seamless integration of Amtrak services.
Conclusion
The lack of direct Amtrak service to Phoenix is a result of a complex interplay of historical, economic, and logistical factors. While the potential for future service exists, significant improvements would be required to meet the necessary infrastructure standards. As the region continues to grow and transportation needs evolve, the possibility of Amtrak service to Phoenix remains an intriguing topic for future discussion.