Amtrak Plans New Shreveport Station for I-20 Line

Amtrak considers SporTran City and historic Princess Park for new I-20 corridor station

Amtrak Eyes Two Sites for Shreveport Station

Amtrak's planning a new station in Shreveport as part of the Interstate 20 passenger rail corridor, with two locations under consideration. Dinero Washington, SporTran CEO, confirmed the city's signed a contract with Amtrak Platform and Facility Design for station design and engineering. The primary site is SporTran City, the transit system's newly rehabbed downtown facility on Texas Avenue, which would connect multiple transportation modes.

Historic Site Serves as Backup Location

The backup location is Princess Park at Louisiana Street, the historic site of Union Station which burned down in 1969. The proposed I-20 route would connect Dallas to Meridian, Mississippi, with stops in Shreveport, Monroe, and Ruston in Louisiana. The route's gained significance due to Meta's $10 billion data center construction in Richland Parish near Monroe, which is expected to increase demand for passenger rail service in the region.

Mardi Gras Service Success Boosts I-20 Interest

The success of the Mardi Gras service between New Orleans and Mobile has increased Amtrak's interest in the I-20 line. That service carried 3,264 passengers in its first week, demonstrating strong demand for passenger rail in the region. Stakeholders believe the I-20 line could be completed before the New Orleans to Baton Rouge route. The project involves collaboration with track owners CPKC and Union Pacific, who are expected to support the effort.

Service Expected Within Five to Ten Years

Washington expects the new line to be operational in less than five to ten years. The Texas Avenue area is being redeveloped to be more walkable and bikable to support the station, with improvements designed to make the facility accessible for pedestrians and cyclists. Officials haven't announced a specific timeline for when construction will begin or when the station design will be finalized.

Multi-Modal Hub Planned for Downtown

The SporTran City location would create a multi-modal transportation hub in downtown Shreveport, connecting Amtrak service with local bus routes and other transit options. The facility's recent rehabilitation positions it to serve as a central connection point for regional and local travel. Riders can track transit updates and plan trips using Moovit, which provides real-time information for public transportation systems.