I guess YMMV. I have tried it twice and NEVER received a callback, so I am now wary of using it. If I actually need to wait, I will wait. But, yeah, for those marginal or first time riders, they're going to give up having to wait 15 mores or more.
I don't love 'em and prefer traditional dining by far. However the entire concept is far better now than it was when first rolled out. That was simply awful. Still, here's hoping the full dining experience is rolled out to more routes in the coming year, I am not optimistic it will ever happen...
If I remember correctly about a year ago work that took one track of service for six weeks some businesses in Lancaster raised holy hell with the STB that they would not be able to access the main. I do not recall how/if that was resolved.
In the coming years several infrastructure projects coming. Definitely needed as the subway and Red Line are long in the tooth.
Unfortunately this series of projects will cause disruptions over the next few years. But, the work is needed.
They're also in early stages of planning rail car...
Major work in store on the Keystone line between Harrisburg and Lancaster.
April-Nov. Most daytime trains M-F will be replaced by buses.
https://media.amtrak.com/2024/03/amtrak-begins-major-harrisburg-line-track-renewal/
If you've never done either I'd give the slight edge to the Pennsylvanian, and not just because of the Horseshoe Curve. The Allegheny Mountains are obviously beautiful and the Eastern PA stretches through Lancaster County are also nice and I find travelling over the Mainline into 30th St...
I am not as technically savvy as many posters here but I sorta skimmed through the first document. Fascinating read. The schematics are difficult to decipher and that would be a great help. My sense is that if fulfilled as laid out here Amtrak will finally truly have a world class fleet. But the...
Fascinating video of a tour of VIA's Montreal maintenance facility. Exclusively a look at work on the Budd cars and an explanation of the critical need for fleet replacement.
There are many opinions are there are train travelers. Agree the Zephyr and Builder are top of the list, but I, too very much enjoyed the Sunset/TE rides I have had provided great enjoyment,
Picked up a friend tonight at Pittsburgh "Union Station." Good to see progress on some updates. The usual exit to the platform is closed due to construction, but I haven't a clue what they are doing in this space. Nice too see the platform location signs though I have no idea why they are still...
Unquestionably the most in-depth story and interview I've seen with Amtrak's CEO. Gives him a bit of depth and personality, which I am sure was the purpose.
https://www.washingtonian.com/2024/03/08/a-dc-indie-rock-musician-is-now-ceo-of-amtrak/