South Dakota is the only state in the lower 48 without any passenger rail service – but that could change.

A new study from Amtrak includes a proposed route that would link Sioux Falls, Pierre and Rapid City to existing rail networks in Denver and the Twin Cities.

The potential route was published in the Federal Railroad Administration's Amtrack Long-Distance Service Study. The administration is taking public comment on the study through March 8. If the proposed route is eventually approved, is would give South Dakotans access to a new coast-to-coast travel method.

Another round of potential route considerations are scheduled for this spring before Amtrak submits its formal report to Congress.