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- Sep 15, 2017
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I highly doubt Springfield would get another high level platform unless an east-west corridor ever came to fruition. The optimal solution to deal with 448/449 would probably be to add a switch connection west of the platforms between CSX track 2 and Springfield Line track 2. On the east end all the tracks eventually can connect to the CSX line already. That would allow 448/449 to exit the main line, pull through the station on track 4 or track 6, stop at the high level, and then continue forward and renter the main line on the other side of the station. To have 448/449 stop at the high level without this would require a backup move. I don’t see them spending the money this just for 448/449. Probably not worth adding a backup move to avoid the low level also. They’ll just keep using a wheelchair lift for it. There are other stations with high level platforms that also have some low level platforms - Washington comes to mind. If it’s ok for Washington I’m sure it’s going to be ok for Springfield.neroden said:The situation with 448/449 stopping at low-level platforms when there is a high-level platform isn't going to be tolerated forever. Amtrak should be thinking about its ADA obligations a bit harder than it currently is...
It is also not unusual in the event of a late Vermonter for the two Vermonters to meet in the station or down by Sweeney. And 449 comes through normally somewhat close to the time the Vermonters do ( and I have seen a couple times the lake shore pass through with both Vermonters sitting side by side in the station.) three trains fighting for tracks 4 and 6 could delay a train in that scenario.
From signage I saw associated with the platform project, track 8 which is kind of the main track now will also continue to see some trains which if true will also still be low level. On Saturday and Sunday mornings one regional must park on track 8 (with the other on track 6) so on weekend mornings I wouldn’t be surprised if one regional still uses track 8 for boarding rather than pulling out of the station and then backing into one of the high level tracks. On weekdays there’s just one regional laying over so if you park that on track 6 you’ll be all set those days.