Hope Amtrak Rail Depot Update

Amtrak is planning to add a stop in Hope for its Texas Eagle service, which already makes other Arkansas stops on its run between San Antonio and Chicago.

The city expected the platform to cost $250,000 but the lowest bid came in at $353,000. One reason for the higher cost is that the construction crew would have to stop work every time a train passed.

Organizers are exploring new designs that can be built off-site and installed in a relatively short amount of time.

Tourism officials say the stop Amtrak stop would enhance the city’s effort to attract visitors. Former President Bill Clinton’s boyhood home in Hope is now managed by the National Park Service. We’ll keep you posted on updates as they are released.