Travel Update 04-07

Travel Update #04-05, dated November 10, 2003, changed the policy regarding fees paid to travel agents for booking flights between Chicago and Springfield to non-reimbursable fees. This change in policy will now apply to all Amtrak tickets booked through a travel agency as well.

Any agency or employee wishing to claim reimbursement for the type of service fee noted above will be required to submit a request for an exception to the Board. To be considered, this request must be personally signed by the Agency Head and must contain a full justification as to why it was necessary to pay the fee.

Employees who wish to avoid paying service fees personally can book these tickets directly through Amtrak.

(800) USA-RAIL (General Reservations)
(217) 753-2013 (Springfield Station)
(312) 558-1075 (Chicago Station)
www.amtrak.com

A flat $16.00 government fare applies to travel in each direction. Amtrak does not sell round trip tickets for this route. Also, as a reminder, Amtrak requires passengers to make advance reservations for all trains serving the State of Illinois. To ensure seat availability, employees should call Amtrak prior to the intended date of travel. State employees will not be penalized for canceling or changing reservations with Amtrak.

Below is a schedule that was updated October 27, 2003 for the Chicago/Springfield route.

* State employees would be advised to avoid using this train if possible. The train originates in San Antonio, TX and is often behind schedule.

As the appointed Travel Coordinator for your agency, it is your responsibility to disseminate this information to all appropriate personnel within your agency. If you have any questions, please contact Kelley Shaw at (217) 782-4705.