The Downeaster Turns 20

[Maverickstation]

This month The Downeaster service marks 20 years in providing service between Maine and Boston.
The service itself is provided by the Northern New England Rail Passenger Authority, with Amtrak as the contracted operator.
The NERPA funds the entire operation, sets the schedules, and services (like the Cafe Menu).

https://wgme.com/news/local/amtrak-...-years-of-service-between-portland-and-boston
Ken

 

[Maverickstation]

Here is a more in-depth article from the Portland Press Herald.
The service is considered a bench mark in the way that it is funded, and operated.

https://www.pressherald.com/2021/12...ects-historic-funding-as-downeaster-turns-20/

 

[jiml]

Of all the Amtrak stories, if there was ever proof of "if you build it they will come" this is the train. Too bad it's not the model for other services.

 

[west point]

Wonder how the next RT will add to ridership?

 

[AmtrakMaineiac]

The Wells work will be a big improvement. Currently there is a passing track there but the platform is only on one track so if 2 trains meet there, one has to wait for the other to complete its station stop. I have been on trains where this has happened. Besides adding a 2nd platform, the siding is also being lengthened which will make meets easier and faster.

The Rockland extension should be a no brainer. There was service before when Maine Eastern operated the branch so stations already exist and the track is in reasonable shape. I suspect it will start off as summer weekend service and go from there.