CSU-Pueblo Professors Release Economic Impact Study

CSU-PUEBLO PROFESSORS RELEASE ECONOMIC IMPACT STUDY OF AMTRAK’S SOUTHWEST CHIEF RAIL SERVICE
Creating positive “ripple effect” on the Colorado economy

(Pueblo)  Colorado State University-Pueblo Professor of Economics Kevin Duncan, Ph.D., met with community leaders today (February 6) at the Pueblo County Courthouse to roll out the economic impact study compiled by Duncan and Professor of Management Michael Wakefield, Ph.D.  Professor Duncan presented study information, revealing a positive economic impact if Amtrak service were extended to Pueblo based on numbers of expected ridership and visitor spending.  Additionally, Duncan outlined the positive economic impact to the Pueblo community and Colorado if the rail needed to repair the line is produced by Evraz Pueblo.  The study assesses several categories of impact, including visitor spending, employment, new and upgraded construction costs, and state and local tax revenue.  The study estimates the total cost of maintaining current Southwest Chief service in Colorado and extending passenger rail service to Pueblo is approximately $74 million.  If these expenses are paid by the federal government, this new spending in Colorado would generate an additional $145 million in economic activity, over 1000 jobs, and about $4.5 million in state and local tax revenue.  Colorado State Representative Leroy Garcia made following comment regarding the study’s release:  “The study shows clearly that the economic benefit of the project outweighs the cost,” says Rep. Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo).  “Let’s bring Amtrak to Pueblo, and let’s keep Amtrak in Colorado.”

1. Summary-Southwest Chief Economic Impact Study-Duncan and Wakefield
2. Southwest Chief Economic Impact-Duncan and Wakefield

Colorado State University - Pueblo is a regional, comprehensive university emphasizing professional, career-oriented, and applied programs. Displaying excellence in teaching, celebrating diversity, and engaging in service and outreach, CSU-Pueblo is distinguished by access, opportunity, and the overall quality of services provided to its students.