An interim legislative committee is hearing requests for millions of dollars in additional state support for Amtrak in Missouri. Michelle Teel of MODOT says Amtrak service has improved, and ridership has increased 16 percent. On-time performance is now 89 percent compared to 63 percent three years ago. Teel says customer satisfaction with Amtrak in Missouri is now 89 percent.

Teel says the current $7.9-million state subsidy to Amtrak is $900,000 short of what the rail service needs. MODOT is asking for full funding for Amtrak, plus an additional $3-million to expand and improve the service.