Passenger Trains > # 3 Had A Great Run Today From CHI to KCY

For the first time seemingly in months Train 3 The Southwest Chief arrived into KC from Chicago at 2145,, 15 minutes EARLY. Running time of 6:55 minutes is quite excellent.  Average speed was 63.8 mph.  It was lucky that it did not get boated ( waiting for barges to clear the Fort Madison swing span bridge), nor did it have to wait behind a string of freights which also got boated.  It was never more than 9 minutes late at any point on this run.  With barges in season, making this great time is pretty unrealistic on a consistent basis, but it is great to know it can be done in 2018.

Sneebly

Amtrak is happy with that and is dreaming that once they get rid of the SW Chief west of KC, the eastbound run will be on schedule too. 

Cumbresfan Wrote:
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> Amtrak is happy with that and is dreaming that
> once they get rid of the SW Chief west of KC, the
> eastbound run will be on schedule too. 

The best would be an additional "corridor" frequency between KC and Chicago as this could be developed into a very competitive and good corridor service. The Southwest Chief is VERY busy on this piece of trackage - especially eastbound - regardless of any delays while enourte. I've seen on many occasions where passengers are asked to take up residency in the Sightseer Lounge car when overbookings occur. The extra coach may help, but a dedicated additional corridor train would also be of great help. 

There is no indication that Missouri has any interest in funding any Chicago - KC service, whether the SW Chief gets truncated or not.

Cumbresfan Wrote:
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> Amtrak is happy with that and is dreaming that
> once they get rid of the SW Chief west of KC, the
> eastbound run will be on schedule too. 

It sucks they still got that mindset, I'm hoping that bill passes so we can breathe a sigh of relief from Propeller Head and his stupid idiots!