Amtrak Taps Pueblo Steel For $8M Track Repair Deal

(Photo: Courtesy of Steve Wilson)
<p>The Southwest Chief rail line, just east of Trinidad, Colo. The Sangre de Cristo mountain range looms in the distance.</p>
Photo: Amtrak Southwest Chief
The Southwest Chief rail line, just east of Trinidad, Colo. The Sangre de Cristo mountain range looms in the distance.

Pueblo County Commissioner Sal Pace said the deal will help a long-struggling industry.

"While the steel mill has been in a bit of a dip, this is a much-needed shot in the arm when we most desperately need it," Pace said.

The improvements on about 100 miles of track begin this week. The contract is worth $8.25 million.

Pace is still working to add a Pueblo stop to the Amtrak line.