Amtrak Advances Accessibility Across Its National Network
First published August 27, 2026
As the nation marks the 36th ADA anniversary, Amtrak reaffirms its commitment to creating a more accessible travel experience for all customers.
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, a visual interpretation 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.
All 16 of Amtrak Cascade stations are ADA accessible. Amtrak Cascades offers a 10% fare discount to passengers with mobility challenges and to their adult companions of age 18 years or older.
New Trains
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.
The new trains were funded by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Amtrak Cascades is primarily funded by ticket revenues, with the balance of operating costs paid for by the states of Oregon and Washington. Each state pays Amtrak through a contract to operate the service. As the new Airos come into service, the older Amfleet equipment will be transitioned from Cascades service and Oregon’s classic Talgos may find new service opportunities elsewhere.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.