Downeaster to shut down during DNC

[Amfleet]

Downeaster to shut down during DNC, increase speed on Aug. 1
PORTLAND - Operators of Amtrak's Downeaster announced Wednesday that they will suspend service between Portland and Boston during the week of next month's Democratic National Convention.

On Aug. 1, the Downeaster's speed will be boosted along much of the track owned by Guilford Rail System, shaving five to 10 minutes off the trip between Portland and Boston, Englert said. The top speed will be 79 mph along four miles of the Guilford-owned track.

 

[engine999]

Im surprised that they dont spend the money to raise track speed elsewhere. It is only saving five minutes. The cost to upgrade tracks could have bought new equipment, such as more coaches.

 

[railman]

The money is coming from Maine DOT so why would they spend it elsewhere?

 

[AlanB]

I'm just surprised that they are giving in to Guilford. They should have held out till the FRA took away Guilford's ability to operate trains, instead of giving them even more money to do a job that they should have done properly the first time. :angry: