Amtrak Advances Accessibility Across Its National Network

As the nation marks the 36th ADA anniversary, Amtrak reaffirms its commitment to creating a more accessible travel experience for all customers.

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Accessibility remains a core component of Amtrak’s mission to provide safe, reliable and welcoming transportation for all travelers. As the nation marks the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, Amtrak is highlighting significant progress in making rail travel more accessible and inclusive across its national network.

“Accessibility is fundamental to how we serve our customers today and how we plan for the future,” said Dr. David Handera, Vice President, Accessibility, Stations & Facilities at Amtrak. “From station improvements and new train fleets to innovative customer services, we are making meaningful progress toward creating a more accessible transportation network that serves all customers for generations to come.”

Through investments in stations, fleet modernization and customer support services, Amtrak continues to advance accessibility throughout the customer journey.

Expanding Services for Customers

Amtrak recently launched a partnership with Be My Eyes, an accessibility platform that connects blind and low-vision customers with specially trained staff familiar with station layouts and accessibility resources.

The service is currently available at 51 stations and provides real-time assistance and wayfinding support, helping customers navigate their travel experience more independently.

Stations

Amtrak continues to make steady progress toward improving accessibility at stations. Of the 382 stations under Amtrak’s responsibility, 163 are now fully ADA compliant. To support continued progress, 306 station designs have been completed, 86 projects are currently underway and 132 projects are scheduled for construction through 2030.

New Trains, Designed for Accessibility

Amtrak introduced its NextGen Acela fleet, which was designed for better accessibility. NextGen Acela features new digital displays, spacious bathrooms and at-seat access panels that improve accessibility. Later this year, Amtrak will also introduce new Airo trainsets on the Amtrak Cascades route connecting Oregon, Washington and British Columbia. These trains will feature onboard lifts, accessible restrooms, spacious entry areas and improved access to onboard amenities. With Northeast Regional service expected to commence in 2027 and additional routes following in subsequent years, customers will experience enhanced accessibility, comfort and convenience as more trains enter service.

Looking Ahead

As Amtrak continues its broader fleet modernization and infrastructure improvement programs, accessibility remains a guiding principle in the design of future rail travel experiences. That commitment is also shaping Amtrak’s future Long Distance fleet, ensuring the next generation of trains delivers greater choice, comfort and mobility for all customers traveling across the national network for decades to come.

Together, these efforts reflect Amtrak’s ongoing commitment to a more accessible transportation experience for all customers.

About Amtrak®

Amtrak is seizing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform rail and Retrain Travel. By modernizing, enhancing, and expanding trains, stations, and infrastructure, Amtrak is meeting the rising demand for train travel. Amtrak offers unforgettable experiences to more than 500 destinations across 46 states and parts of Canada. Learn more at Amtrak.com, download the Amtrak app, connect with us on X, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, and join Amtrak Guest Rewards for free to start earning points toward Amtrak reward travel, upgrades, lounge access and more.