Amtrak’s Borealis train service, connecting St. Paul and Chicago, is celebrating a major milestone: exceeding 100,000 passengers in just six months of operation. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the growing demand for reliable and efficient intercity travel options, showcasing the success of the partnership between Amtrak and the transportation departments of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois.
Since its launch, the Borealis service has captured the attention of travelers seeking an alternative to road trips or air travel. The daily service, which runs through scenic landscapes and vibrant city centers, has become a popular choice for business travelers, tourists, and those seeking a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
To commemorate this milestone, Amtrak officials, alongside representatives from the state transportation departments, boarded both the eastbound and westbound Borealis trains, marking the occasion with festivities and gratitude.
“We’ve been pleasantly surprised by the excitement and ridership that the new service has created and couldn’t be prouder of our partnership,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris, who added that Amtrak ridership nationwide is on trend to set a record this year. “The number of full trains, even at mid-week on the Twin Cities-Milwaukee-Chicago corridor, is leading Amtrak and our state partners to look at how we can add capacity.”
“Reaching 100,000 passengers in less than six months is a testament to the good things that can happen when we provide a service that is needed,” said Minnesota Transportation Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. “We are very excited to reach this milestone and look forward to strengthening our partnerships with communities, as well as federal, state and local governments, and Amtrak to continue providing a safe, reliable, and sustainable transportation option.”
“We are excited to celebrate this significant milestone with our partners today,” said Wisconsin Transportation Secretary Kristina Boardman. “Strong ridership from day one demonstrates the interest in passenger rail in Wisconsin and is a product of the partnership between Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois and Amtrak to provide this service to riders. We will continue to work with our federal and state partners to explore additional passenger rail opportunities.”
“Illinois is proud to be a partner with Minnesota, Wisconsin and Amtrak in providing the Borealis service,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “Reaching the 100,000-passenger milestone so soon after service began demonstrates the appetite and importance with the public to better connect our cities and offer multiple modes of transportation to get where they need to go.”
To mark the occasion, passengers were treated to complimentary refreshments and commemorative certificates that included 500 bonus Amtrak Guest Rewards points. Adding a playful touch, Amtrak also handed out “100-Grand” candy bars to all travelers, serving as a fun snack or memento.
The Borealis trains depart daily from St. Paul at midday and from Chicago in the late morning, offering Amtrak’s regular discounts for various groups, including children aged 2-12, students, seniors, veterans, military personnel, families, and groups. Passengers can choose between Coach and Business Class, with access to a café car that features locally inspired food and beverages. Travelers on the Borealis trains benefit from spacious reclining seats with generous legroom, no middle seats, free Wi-Fi, and scenic views of the Mississippi River on the route between St. Paul and La Crosse, Wisconsin.
The success of the Borealis train service is a positive sign for the future of passenger rail in the United States. As more and more people seek convenient and sustainable transportation options, the demand for reliable and efficient intercity rail service is likely to continue to grow. With its commitment to providing excellent service and its focus on community partnerships, Amtrak is well-positioned to meet this growing demand and further enhance its role in the nation’s transportation system.