Zack Sullivan, Executive Director
Geneseo Chamber of Commerce
The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce reiterated its strong support for the established Iowa-Interstate Railroad high-speed train route connecting the Quad Cities to Chicago through Geneseo, Annawan, and Wyanet, expressing deep concern over the proposed alternative BNSF routes via Colona or Barstow. Based on recent developments and ongoing discussions regarding the Quad Cities passenger rail service, the Geneseo Chamber believes that the original route remains the most economically viable and strategically beneficial option for the Quad Cities region.
The established route, which aligns with existing infrastructure and offers direct access to key communities, promises to stimulate economic growth and enhance connectivity for Geneseo and its surrounding areas. Currently, Geneseo is slated to host a stop along the route, with plans to build a small depot in which travelers can access Geneseo, while offering local residents and visitors an option to travel to Chicago and the Quad Cities via rail service. Diverting the route would not only disrupt years of planning, infrastructure modifications, and investment for a stop along the route in Geneseo, but would also potentially diminish the long-term benefits intended for the region.
Geneseo City Administrator, Brandon Maeglin, adds: “In 2017, the City of Geneseo made a significant investment in land acquisition to accommodate the planned Geneseo Amtrak Depot. The City, and the Geneseo community, are looking for answers so that we can properly plan for the future of this vacant piece of land in a key part of our Downtown Business District.”
The Geneseo Chamber emphasizes that the original and more direct route through Geneseo, Annawan, and Wyanet was chosen after careful consideration of various factors, including population density, existing infrastructure, and potential economic impact. The proposed shift to Colona or Barstow raises significant concerns about increased costs, longer travel times, potential delays, and the long-term sustainability of the project. The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce believes that prioritizing the original route ensures that the Quad Cities region maximizes the opportunities presented by high-speed rail, fostering economic development, enhancing tourism, and improving transportation access for residents and businesses alike.
The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce urges State of Illinois and Quad Cities officials to remain committed to the established route and to reject any proposals that would compromise the integrity and effectiveness of the high-speed rail project. We believe that a unified and consistent approach involving all stakeholders along the route is essential to delivering the promised benefits of this vital infrastructure investment to the entire Quad Cities region. We will continue to advocate for the original route, ensuring that the interests of Geneseo and the surrounding communities are protected and that the region’s economic future is secured.