Auto Train, 18 June, 2012 North Options

[d.o.n.]

Another good trip for Auto Train. Nothing much happened. Left a bit early. Arrived a bit late (My sked). About 0835 and they had cars off before the drivers were in the waiting area. Had the long walk from the head end (--45 car).

On 15 May I called Amtrak and asked for the first available Room H. This was it, June 18. Never before in over 5 dozen, plus trips has it taken so long. This is also the first time we split the drive to Sanford. Glenna did not want to stay over at Sanford (fear of riots) so we stopped at Ft Pierce Holiday Inn EX.

While waiting at Sanford, Amtrak SService stopped on the main line. A supervisor ( from his clothes) climbed to the cab and two workers (from their clothes) climbed in the rear of the first loco. After about 20 min the super left and 10 min later the workers returned to Auto Train work area. Silver Service departs.

2:30 and walked out the door into car --45.

The yard where the Ice house used to be is being updated. Dozers, back hoes and other equipment working it over with new? ties and rail plus concrete work one track over, south, from main line. Think there were comm line conduits as part of it. Caught me by surprise so did not see much.

Entered a siding south of Green Cove Spring for a FAST freight. New to me car loads. Looked like a bunch of metal trackside buildings painted dark blue with stripes on flat cars. One per car. Two empty flats with weldments like supports and two TOFC, rough looking and did not see any markings. Then to Florence and "No walking the dog" tonight.

That was it except the service was tops and the food was good. John left nothing out in his welcome. d.o.n.