Heartland Flyer continues growth, Oklahoma Department of

Journal Record, The (Oklahoma City), Jun 10, 2008 by Janice Francis-Smith

Some people thought it wouldn't last. But it's been nine years, and it's only gotten stronger.

So to celebrate the Heartland Flyer's ninth year of service, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation will throw an anniversary party on Saturday, June 14, at the Santa Fe Depot in Oklahoma City.

Amtrak's Heartland Flyer began service on June 14, 1999, following a 20-year lapse in passenger rail service for Oklahomans. Oklahoma and Texas share the cost of operating the line, contributing $2 million each annually.

The Flyer makes daily trips down to Fort Worth, Texas, and back, with stops along the way at Norman, Purcell, Pauls Valley, Ardmore and Gainesville, Texas. The train leaves Oklahoma City at 8:25 a.m. and returns to Oklahoma City at 9:39 p.m. each day.

Since 1999, more than 540,650 passengers have ridden the train. Transportation officials report increased ridership since October 2007, presumably attributable to rising gas prices. According to the Amtrak Web site on Monday, a round-trip ticket for the entire route costs $60.

ODOT spokesperson Brenda Perry said the Heartland Flyer's success lies in its appeal to people from all walks of life.

"We have commuters taking the Heartland Flyer for business trips, tourists who take the train for fun, students, all different types of travelers and it seems to be fitting the bill for their needs," said Perry.

In honor of the Heartland Flyer's anniversary celebration, free coffee, bottled water and donuts will be made available at the Santa Fe Station prior to the Heartland Flyer's departure. Because the celebration coincides with Flag Day, passengers will receive a miniature American flag.