Hello Reader,

Thanks for taking some time out of your day to chat about travel with me.

The Wolverine Returns To Full Service

Last week, the Wolverine (Chicago to Pontiac) Service resumed its full schedule.

The Silver Service and Auto Train Are Back

The Auto Train was the first to return to full service, and now the Silver trains are also back in service, making all stops.

Understanding the Delay in Restoring Amtrak Service After Storms

I’ve noticed some concerns in a few Amtrak groups. A few people thought Amtrak needed to resume service to Florida sooner after the recent hurricane. I do not believe those people understand all the efforts required to restore train service.

I want to explain the process and share how things work to the best of my understanding. This information is relevant to hurricanes, fires, and other natural disasters.

Amtrak Cannot Control the Weather.

Despite what some may believe, Amtrak does not control the weather to ruin your trip, nor can it dictate how a storm will pass! (There seem to be people who do.)

When a storm passes, the aftermath takes time to return to normal and doesn’t happen overnight. Unfortunately, storms don’t simply come through and leave everything revitalized; they often cause significant damage that requires time to rectify, including damage to railway tracks.

It’s Not Just Amtrak’s Decision

Since Amtrak does not own most of the tracks it uses, it is not the sole decision-maker in these situations.

Track inspectors from the host railroads must thoroughly check every mile of track before trains can safely run again. If repairs are needed, they must be completed first, which can take time, especially if supplies need to be delivered. Blocked surface roads can also slow down the process.

Backlog of Trains After Suspensions

Railroads often suspend operations during severe weather, leading to a backlog of freight trains that must get cleared before Amtrak can resume passenger service. The clearing can only begin once the tracks are safe.

Equipment Needs to Be in the Right Place

Amtrak sometimes relocates its trains to protect them before a storm. After the storm passes, the trains need to get repositioned for service to resume.

Unfortunately, some people expect everything to happen quickly. However, without knowing the extent of track damage, the amount of debris needing to be cleared, or the number of backed-up trains, it isn’t possible to judge how long recovery efforts will take and receive approval from the host railroad.

I completely understand the frustration. After a storm, my dad and I experienced this firsthand while trying to leave Charleston, SC. In situations like this, flexibility is critical. If caught in something similar, travel insurance can help cover unexpected costs, and patience can go a long way.

What Kev Has Been Up To!

I’m in Florida with my sister and her family. The kids were happy to see me, and I think my sister and her husband are glad to have another adult for the kids to play with.

The twins shocked me with how much they have grown since this summer!

My flights went well and smoothly, and my sister was surprised to find some cheese curds and kringle in the two suitcases of stuff from grandma that she wanted to try.

Bringing this email to a close

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I am truly grateful for all of you who are part of this adventure!

Happy planning and safe travels!

Kev Monteith

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