To the editor:

The task force that is exploring enticing more retirees to live in Lawrence might wish to add our excellent Amtrak service and passenger station to their list of positives. Amtrak provides fast, easy travel from Lawrence to destinations including Kansas City, Chicago, St. Louis, Topeka and Hutchinson. This option will appeal to a demographic that finds long-distance auto travel or trips back and forth to KCI less appealing as they grow older. A local organization, Depot Redux, sees to it that our depot is open for each arrival and departure in Lawrence, and they also keep the station clean and neat.

On a related topic, a new passenger platform is being constructed at the depot. There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the station at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, with music, refreshments and a speaker from Amtrak.  The public is invited to attend.