John Robert Smith, a prominent rail advocate, will speak to locals about the community benefits of rail service.

Smith’s visit comes in light of the Iowa and Illinois transportation departments and the Federal Railroad Administration studying a possible passenger rail route from Chicago to Omaha. That study is expected to be completed in March or April 2013.

According to a recent city memorandum, city staff has been working with the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce and others throughout the state to advocate for the rail service.

Smith will speak at the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce at 3:30 p.m. May 24.

— by Kristen East