2 replies to this topic

[CNJRoss]

Amtrak Service Alert:

Amtrak to Operate Modified Snow Schedule on Friday, Jan. 3
Reduced schedule to minimize impact on travelers

January 2, 2014
3:50pm ET

Due to the winter storm forecast to impact the Northeast Corridor, Amtrak will operate a modified snow schedule on Friday, Jan. 3, 2014.

Acela Express and Northeast Regional service will operate between Boston and Washington. Passengers should expect reduced frequencies, particularly in New England.

Corridor services, including the Keystone Service (New York – Harrisburg, Pa.), Empire Service (New York – Albany, N.Y.), Amtrak Downeaster (Brunswick, Maine – Boston) and most of the Springfield Shuttle (New Haven, Ct. – Springfield, Mass.), are not affected and are expected to operate a normal schedule.

Passengers holding reservations that require modification are being accommodated on other trains and proactively notified by Amtrak Customer Service. A range of tools – including Amtrak.com, smartphone apps and 1-800-USA-RAIL – are available to assist in travel planning.

Passengers who have paid but choose not to travel due to this service disruption can receive a refund or a voucher for future travel. Some reservations booked online can be modified or canceled on Amtrak.com or by using the free Amtrak mobile app.

Amtrak regrets any inconvenience. This information is correct as of the above time and date. Information is subject to change as conditions warrant. Passengers are encouraged to call 800-USA-RAIL or visit Amtrak.com/alerts for Service Alerts and Passenger Notices. Schedule information and train status updates are available at the Amtrak.com home page.

[CNJRoss]

Amtrak news release, 1/2:

AMTRAK PREPARING FOR WINTER STORM
Forces deploying throughout Northeast Corridor

WASHINGTON – Amtrak forces up and down the Northeast Corridor are making preparations for potential impacts from the pending winter storm. With extreme conditions expected in some areas over the next 24-36 hours, crews are actively monitoring the latest forecasts to make informed decisions about service levels. Amtrak is currently operating a regular Thursday schedule and announcements about any schedule changes, if needed, will be made as soon as that information becomes available.

Following is a summary of major preparation activities already underway:

Severe Weather Command Center Activated – Amtrak’s multi-departmental Severe Weather Command Center has been activated at the Consolidated National Operations Center in Wilmington, Delaware. From this facility, a task force is monitoring the latest weather conditions, assessing the state of the railroad and related infrastructure in real-time and coordinating any necessary response. The Command Center will remain active until the immediate threat of any disruption has passed and any service disruption is resolved.

Equipment Positioning – To more quickly respond to potential problems, diesel locomotives and on-track maintenance equipment are strategically positioned along the Northeast Corridor. Should downed trees or limbs disable the overhead electrical system, diesel power can help move trains when it is safe to do so, and on-track equipment can be dispatched to make any necessary infrastructure repairs.

Tree Trimming Crews – To supplement standard coverage, independent contractors are on standby to quickly respond to reports of trees or limbs down along the right-of-way, which could damage the overhead electrical system or prevent safe passage of trains. Amtrak engages in a regular year-round tree trimming program to proactively minimize such impacts.

Additional Staffing – Mechanical, engineering and operations forces are mobilizing additional crews to ensure safe and efficient operation of the railroad. Additional on-board staff are pre-positioned to respond should a re-crewing need arise.

Passengers with travel plans for Thursday evening and Friday are encouraged to plan ahead and make any necessary reservation changes in advance. A wide range of tools are available to assist with travel planning including Amtrak.com (including the interactive train tracker map), the Amtrak smartphone app (available for iPhone, Android & Windows phones) and 1-800-USA-RAIL.

[KevinKorell]

Amtrak Plans Return to Near-Normal Northeast Corridor Service
Most Trains to Operate on Saturday, Jan. 4, Following Winter Storm

January 3, 2014
2:45pm ET

Amtrak plans to operate nearly all scheduled Acela Express and Northeast Regional service between Washington, New York and Boston on the Northeast Corridor Saturday, Jan. 4. Passengers should expect minor delays due to weather conditions that continue to impact the railroad, and are encouraged to allow extra time for travel to, from and within stations.

Passengers holding reservations that require modification are being proactively notified by Amtrak Customer Service and accommodated on other trains. A range of tools – including Amtrak.com, smartphone apps and 1-800-USA-RAIL – are available to assist in travel planning.

Passengers who have paid but choose not to travel due to this service disruption can receive a refund or a voucher for future travel. Some reservations booked online can be modified or canceled on http://Amtrak.com/ or by using the free Amtrak mobile app.

Amtrak regrets any inconvenience. This information is correct as of the above time and date. Information is subject to change as conditions warrant. Passengers are encouraged to call 800-USA-RAIL or visit http://Amtrak.com/alerts for Service Alerts and Passenger Notices. Schedule information and train status updates are available at the http://Amtrak.com/ home page.