Ohio is stepping onto the main stage and into the national spotlight of America’s rail future. The Rail Passengers Association (RPA) has officially announced that Toledo, Ohio will host RailNation 2026, the organization’s premier annual conference for passenger rail advocates, policymakers, and transportation leaders.

It’s validation that our state is essential to building a robust national passenger rail system. Positioned at the crossroads of the Midwest, Ohio connects some of the most critical corridors in the country. With Toledo, also known as “The Glass City,” now at the center of a national conversation, the rest of the country will see what we’ve known all along: Ohio moves people, ideas, and progress forward.

“This announcement couldn’t come at a better time,” said Mitch Radakovich, Chair of All Aboard Ohio’s Board of Directors. “For years, we’ve been working to show that Ohio’s future is built by rail; that our cities, our economy, and our communities all benefit when we invest in connection. Hosting RailNation 2026 brings that message to life. It’s recognition of the incredible advocacy happening here in Ohio and a powerful reminder that our state isn’t just part of the national rail conversation… we’re helping to lead it. This conference will spotlight the partnerships, progress, and people who are proving that Ohio’s future truly runs on rails.”

Toledo’s selection follows a nationwide vote among RPA Council members, topping cities like Raleigh, Buffalo, and Providence. RPA President & CEO Jim Mathews credited the “incredible grassroots work being done by a truly reinvigorated All Aboard Ohio” as a driving force behind the choice.

That grassroots energy comes at a critical moment. Even as Ohio has temporarily stepped back from the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission, public support for expanded service continues to soar, with more than 75% of residents backing passenger rail, according to ODOT’s Access Ohio 2050 survey. The growing momentum behind the Federal Railroad Administration’s Corridor ID program makes this an especially pivotal time to keep Ohio front and center in national rail planning.

The potential rewards are clear. Independent estimates already show sizable gains for Ohio’s key corridors. The 3C+D route (Cleveland–Columbus–Dayton–Cincinnati) is projected to generate about $130 million in annual economic impact, with the Cleveland–Toledo–Detroit corridor expected to add nearly $100 million more as service expands. These local gains align with national studies showing that passenger rail and transit investments deliver powerful returns: according to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), every $1 invested in public transportation generates $4 to $5 in economic returns and supports approximately 50,000 jobs per $1 billion invested nationwide.

These numbers tell a story that’s bigger than transportation: investing in rail strengthens local economies, supports small businesses, creates jobs, and improves quality of life.

With its iconic Amtrak station, central location, and proud rail legacy, Toledo is the perfect host city for a conference centered on connection, innovation, and economic opportunity. The city’s industrial roots and glassmaking heritage, born from its 19th-century rail access, make it an ideal backdrop for a gathering focused on how infrastructure drives growth and resilience.

Planning for RailNation 2026 is already underway, and excitement is building. All Aboard Ohio is honored to collaborate with the Rail Passengers Association and our partners across the state to showcase Ohio’s leadership and vision for the future of rail.

Exact dates, hotels, and lodging options are now being finalized, including plans for ancillary tours, receptions, and community events that will highlight Toledo’s rich rail and industrial history. According to RPA, the goal is to have dates and venue details confirmed by Memorial Day 2026, and additional programming announced by mid-July. All Aboard Ohio will share updates as the planning team prepares to welcome advocates, policymakers, and transportation leaders from across the nation next fall.

We’ll see you in the Glass City... where the future of rail begins.