Hello Reader,

Welcome back!

Chicago Union Station is receiving significant upgrades on the train side of the station.

To accommodate these improvements, boarding procedures may differ from what you're accustomed to.

Your line-up could change from visit to visit, and Metra may not be using its usual tracks.

If you have a trip to or through Chicago, bring a bit more patience and understanding.

Hopefully, once the work is finished, Chicago Union Station will become a modern facility that still retains its history and charm.

The Borealis Exceeds Expectations.

The Amtrak Borealis service, which connects St. Paul and Chicago via Milwaukee, has exceeded 205,800 passengers in its first year, surpassing expectations and marking a significant milestone in Midwestern rail travel.

Launched on May 21, 2024, the Borealis is the first state-funded intercity passenger rail service in Wisconsin in over two decades. Its success reflects a growing demand for reliable, efficient transportation options across the region. The service has contributed to a 227% increase in total Amtrak ridership on the St. Paul–Chicago corridor, which now includes both the Borealis and the Empire Builder trains.

Officials from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois have praised the Borealis for providing a vital link between major cities and smaller communities, enhancing mobility and economic opportunities. The positive reception and substantial ridership numbers underscore the importance of continued investment in passenger rail infrastructure throughout the Midwest.

The Heartland Flyer will continue for another year.

According to WKTN, the Heartland Flyer—Amtrak’s daily train between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth—will continue running thanks to a renewed funding agreement between Oklahoma and Texas.

Both states have agreed to split the costs of the service, ensuring its continued operation. Officials emphasize the train’s importance for regional travel and economic development. The agreement reflects a strong partnership and ongoing support for passenger rail service in the area.

What has Kev been up to?

This week, the house has been buzzing with excitement as we prepare for my nieces and nephew to arrive on Saturday. I'm enjoying these last few days of quiet, but honestly, I'm looking forward to being pulled away from my computer to play with them.

It will be fun to see what kind of mischief the twins get into, and I’m particularly excited to see how my nephew reacts to seeing large trains in person!

I never really considered myself a “kid person” in the past, but my oldest niece definitely changed that—and the twins have confirmed it. Well... to a point, haha.

Looking at the Markers 🚂

Thank you for reading this newsletter and reaching out—it means a lot to me!

Did you know that you can receive a postcard every month and more? You can! Join the other amazing people on Patreon; I would love to send you a postcard while we help keep this newsletter and Travels with Kev goingthat'sIf that is not for you, but you still want to support what I do, please visit my support page and click the green blocated utton at the bottom of this newsletter.

Every little bit truly helps, and together, we’re inspiring more people to explore the world—one train trip at a time! 🚆✨

Until Next Week…

Happy planning and safe travels,
Kev Monteith