FILE – An Amtrak passenger train near Carbondale, Ill. | D. Mitchell Schultheis

CARBONDALE, Ill. (WJPF) — Amtrak has announced plans to reduce service on long-distance trains due to a decrease in passengers during the coronavirus pandemic.

The decision will affect the iconic City of New Orleans, which provides daily service between Chicago and New Orleans, and stops in Carbondale.

Beginning October 1, Amtrak will cut the City of New Orleans and other long distance trains from daily service to three days a week.

The Illini and Saluki trains, which provide daily service between Carbondale and Chicago will not be affected.