Regarding the TCMC (Twin Cities Milwaukee Chicago) second frequency, that is actually a go. They have the funding, the environmental approvals, and a schedule to start construction in 2023. So there will be two round trips now, including the one Empire Builder frequency. The TCMC will leave MSP around noon and Chicago around 11 AM.
https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/projects/multimodal/tcmc.aspx
Article with more information:
Transportation: TCMC Train Poised for 2024 Start
Basically the only construction needed is some spot track and siding improvements in Winona, La Crescent, and La Crosse.
Hopefully once TCMC is running, it will increase demand for more service and service to Madison. Personally, I'm looking forward to taking train trips from MKE to MSP and utilizing their light rail system.