Indiana has a new contract in place securing the future of the Hoosier State Rail Line for the next two years.
The deal between the state, Amtrak and Iowa Pacific began Sunday after months of negotiation and uncertainty.
Amtrak will operate the line running from Indianapolis to Chicago, while Iowa Pacific will be responsible for train equipment and maintenance. The line will feature food service and free wi-fi internet.
If ticket sales don’t cover all expenses, Indiana will pay Amtrak the difference.
Indiana Department of Transportation officials expect the state to pay nearly $300,000 a month, with about $21,000 coming from local communities along the line.
The state will receive 25-percent of Iowa Pacific’s profits. And if ticket revenue ever exceeds expenses, INDOT will receive the overage.
