INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ A new state-funded study that details the potential benefits of improving service along an Amtrak line between Indianapolis and Chicago is giving the line's supporters hope as Indiana continues negotiating with Amtrak on its options for keeping the line running.
 
The Hoosier State line will continue its four-day-a-week service at least through mid-October, but will grind to a halt after that unless Indiana, Amtrak and the communities where it makes stops reach a funding agreement.
 
The federal government is pulling the $3.1 million in annual funding it provides for the 196-mile line under legislation passed by Congress in 2008.
 
Hoosier Environmental Council senior policy director Tim Maloney says a state consultant's report released Thursday shows the line's ridership and revenue could be boosted without significant additional costs.