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Impact of UP Track Work on the Texas Eagle

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  • Member since
    February 2016
  • From: Texas
  • 1,537 posts
Impact of UP Track Work on the Texas Eagle
Posted by PJS1 on Sunday, June 18, 2017 9:14 AM

For the second or third time in as many years the UP has forced Amtrak to re-route the Texas Eagle because of track work in east Texas.  It has been in effect since May 25th or thereabouts and will last until June 22nd or thereabouts.  

Passengers to or from Dallas and other intermediate points are enjoying the pleasurers of a bus ride.  Meanwhile the train is running from Longview to Taylor via Jacksonville, Palestine, Hearn, etc.  

How would the Missouri Pacific Railroad have handled a similar situation? Would it have substituted buses for its premier passenger trains?

Rio Grande Valley, CFI,CFII

  • Member since
    May 2003
  • From: US
  • 24,928 posts
Posted by BaltACD on Sunday, June 18, 2017 12:43 PM

The MP and its passenger services existed in a different world.  Both from a railroad perspective as well as a people perspective.

The acceptable in the 1960's and 2010's are vastly different.

Never too old to have a happy childhood!

              

  • Member since
    February 2016
  • From: Texas
  • 1,537 posts
Posted by PJS1 on Saturday, June 24, 2017 11:41 AM

Apparently the track work has not gone as planned.  Passengers on the Texas Eagle bound to or from Dallas, Fort Worth, etc. will get at least another week to enjoy the pleasures of a bus ride.

If buses can be substituted for the Eagle for five or six weeks during the height of the summer vacation period, how can one argue that the long distance trains are a vital part of America's passenger transportation system?

Rio Grande Valley, CFI,CFII

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