Passenger Trains > A traveler's question

So I'm taking the Coast Starlight from Seattle to L.A. next week. A friend in Oakland and I were talking about saying hi face to face, and I was wondering if the stop at Jack London Square allows time for passengers to get out, step into the station for a few minutes, and get back onboard. Or, for that matter, to get off at all?

You can probably step off briefly, but I wouldn't chance it by going to the station...........

Are you in sleeper or coach? If in sleeper, your car will be southernmost or towards the front of the train near the locomotive. If coaches (except business class) you'll be towards the rear. Business class is sort of in the middle of the train. Best to tell friend your location and then try to meet up - presuming they will allow your friend out on the platform at Jack London!



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 12/06/16 22:54 by jp1822.

I'm in a sleeper.
 

BigDave Wrote:
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> I'm in a sleeper.
>  

So you'll be on the southernmost end next to the locomotive for reference. Maybe your friend could come out to eh sleeper car or something. Not sure what Amtrak's station crew and boarding staff will allow.

It appears that the train is scheduled to be at Oakland for 25 minutes, so you might have some time to visit, unless the train is late and the stop is shortened for some reason. The crew always knows such details so check in with them before arrival.  I would inform the Conductor of your wishes to meet your friend at the stop.  Perhaps she/he can help arrange it or make a suggestion on how to do it, or if timing is a problem.  If there is a security issue, perhaps the Conductor might clear it with the station personnel so your friend can be directed or escorted to where you can meet.

Let us know how you do and if you enjoyed your journey!

 

You should be fine for a short visit. As said, you'll be near the head end of the train and there'll be an attendant that will keep an eye on you- just stay close. There are no restrictions that will keep your friend off the platform.
OKJ always has a fair amount of baggage to transfer and the diner, parlor, and cafe all take on supplies here. These things tend to use up the full allotted time. (Private cars get added/dropped here too sometimes, although lately it's being done in the yard)
You'll be fine- go for it!
SR

BigDave Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> So I'm taking the Coast Starlight from Seattle to
> L.A. next week. A friend in Oakland and I were
> talking about saying hi face to face, and I was
> wondering if the stop at Jack London Square allows
> time for passengers to get out, step into the
> station for a few minutes, and get back onboard.
> Or, for that matter, to get off at all?

If the train is on time there will be more than enough time to have a meet n greet.  I did so myself when I rode the starlight. They just need to know that its a hike from the nearest BART station.

It's a bit of a hike- about 15 blocks. So allow time.
Where is your friend coming from? If it's San Francisco, take the ferry instead.
SR

Take BART to 19th Street Oakland Station -- AC Transit runs bus/shuttle from there to OKJ station.  

My friend actually lives near Jack London Square.