NCDOT: Record NC train ridership in 2025

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- It was another record-setting year for ridership on North Carolina's state-subsidized Amtrak trains.

For the fourth straight year since the Covid-19 pandemic, a record number of people were taking the train across our state.

Nearly 740,000 boarded Piedmont and Carolinian trains in 2025, about 19,000 more than in 2024.

Last year's ridership was 59% more than in 2019 the last full year before the pandemic.

October was the busiest month on record with 74,400 passengers.

According to NCDOT rail division, some of the increase is a result of special events and promotions.

Trains make stops at the NC State Fair and the Lexington Barbecue Festival and DOT adjusts the Piedmont's Sunday schedule for Carolina Panthers fans.

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