Transcontinental train route proposed to cut through Kansas

KANSAS (KSNT) – A new coast-to-coast train service is being proposed that would run through the Sunflower State and give passengers a new way to see the continental United States.

AmeriStarRail has proposed a new passenger train route called “The Transcontinental Chief” to operate between Los Angeles and New York in partnership with Amtrak in a letter on June 30, 2025. The line would also offer logistics support at RailPorts where truckers can drive their entire tractor-trailers onto railroad flatcars. The service would help truckers get their federally mandated 10-hour rest periods and give them a place to relax.

“The Transcontinental Chief will revolutionize rail passenger service and express logistics by carrying passengers, truck drivers and their tractor trailers coast-to-coast in less than 72 hours.”
AmeriStarRail Chief Operating Officer Scott R. Spencer wrote on June 30

The proposed route would stop through: Garden City, Dodge City, Hutchinson, Newton, Topeka, Lawrence and Kansas City on its trip across the nation.

The proposal was shared with President Donald Trump, United States Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, the Federal Railroad Administration and members of Congress. The route would be privately funded through its partnerships.

The proposed launch date for The Transcontinental Chief is on National Train Day, May 10, 2026. The launch would coincide with celebrations for America’s 250th birthday and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Kansas City will get four group-stage matches at Arrowhead Stadium in the FIFA 2026 World Cup. The opening match of the 2026 World Cup will be in Mexico City at Estadio Azteca on June 11.

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