I haven't been keeping track of the numbers but there certainly are a lot more LONG trains, 10k feet plus, some around 14-15k, running through here than there ever were before, I'm assuming due to PSR.
This has really hurt the local amtrak service schedule because none of these trains will fit in sidings on the Sedalia Sub where Amtrak has to run against the current, so Amtrak often has to wait in the siding and the freight holds the main. Seems more often than not Amtrak is late since PSR.
I've been watching UP's intermodal service schedules during the past few months. One thing I've noticed is that since mid-year or so the number of intermodal trains on the Jefferson City Sub west of St. Louis has probably shrunk. The current holiday schedule only lists one westbound (IMNNP) and two eastbound (ILBDU, ICYMN) intermodals, and only one ramp cutoff at Dupo for westbound service. There used to be two or more cutoffs for Northern California/Pacific Northwest and Long Beach service. Now the schedules suggest one combined train that is switched apart at Kansas City, etc. Has anyone been to Jefferson City lately to confirm?
- Ed Kyle
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