At the symposium, Administrator Szabo spoke about advancements in passenger rail throughout the country and the importance of planning at the state level.

"Progress doesn't happen overnight, it becomes a reality after each state lays a solid foundation through good planning and analysis," Administrator Szabo said. "I am pleased to see the planning work currently taking place in Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas, proving that strong, long-term planning leads to the creation of a market-driven rail plan that benefits communities throughout the corridor."

With more than $10 billion in funding, the FRA and 32 state partners are moving forward with 154 high-speed and intercity passenger rail program projects, laying the foundation for a 21st century passenger rail network. A total federal investment of $2.5 billion thus far has allowed the Midwest region to see improvements in reliability, trip times and station development over the past three years.