Pueblo County commissioner: Train accident in Kansas example of upgrades needed for track

A Pueblo County commissioner said the accident involving a passenger train in Kansas is an example of why repairs need to be made on the track.

Amtrak’s Southwest Chief derailed Monday, injuring 40 people.

Commissioner Sal Pace, who is part of the Southwest Chief Commission, said the reports from the accident show there was unreported damage on the track.

“I think this underscores the importance of making sure we finish the rail upgrades on the Southwest Chief line,” he said.

Pace said that part of the track hadn’t been reached by crews yet for improvements.

He said the accident doesn’t mean Amtrak will cut off service to the region.

More than $20 million has been invested in track improvements so far.

The Southwest Chief runs through Lamar, La Junta and Trinidad in Colorado.