By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

Pontiac’s new Amtrak train depot, located just south of the old one, had its grand opening and ribbon cutting Monday morning, but opened for travelers early Tuesday.

Pontiac Mayor Bob Russell greeted the dozen or so people waiting for the 8 am train headed north, and heard their comments.

“For sure, we’re excited it’s completed. It’s a beautiful facility, but what really was exciting for me was to talk to the passengers waiting to get on and how much they enjoy it, knowing there are washrooms right here in the building and it’s so bright and light, they were all just tickled to be here. It’s going to serve our public very well. We’re glad it’s done. Our goal is to keep this very nice place for people coming and going and we now have the new parking lot that will handle lots of cars. All in all, this is a very big win for the City of Pontiac,” Russell said.