Travel Update 07-05

The Governor’s Travel Control Board wishes to update agencies on the Amtrak schedule for travel between Springfield and Chicago.  Please take note of this schedule as changes have occurred to departure and arrival times and two new routes have been added.  This schedule change will be effective October 30, 2006.

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

The two new routes (i.e., #302 and #306 from Springfield and #301 and #307 from Chicago) will provide state employees with additional alternatives when traveling between the two cities.

A flat $17.00 government fare applies to travel in each direction.  Amtrak does not sell round trip tickets for this route.  Amtrak requires passengers to make advance reservations for all trains serving the State of Illinois.  Employees will be asked to present a State ID upon check in. To ensure seat availability, employees should call Amtrak prior to the intended date of travel. Reservations on Amtrak may be made by calling:

* General Reservations (800) USA-RAIL

* Springfield Station  (217) 753-2013

* Chicago Station      (312) 558-1075

Although train information is available at www.amtrak.com, reservations for state travel cannot be made on this site.  Copies of complete schedules for all Illinois cities served by Amtrak can also be obtained at a local Amtrak station or by calling the Illinois Department of Transportation, Bureau of Railroads, at (217) 782-4981.

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, State Travel Coordinator, at (217) 782-4705 or by e-mail at kelley.shaw@illinois.gov.

PC/ks