If the infrastructure bill currently under consideration in Congress is passed, Amtrak officials have said the rail service may once again provide passenger transport between Phoenix and Tucson for the first time since 1996.
Phoenix is the largest city in the United States without direct Amtrak service.
Mayors along the line expressed support for the possibility in July, citing benefits to economic development and the opportunity for diversified transportation options.
The federal bill as it stands provides $66B for passenger and freight rail improvements. Amtrak has asked for $75B over 15 years for passenger rail development and expansion funding.
Service officials predict reestablishing service to Phoenix would cost $1B. (Source)