Amtrak Downeaster Service Temporarily Suspended Through May 31st
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- Created: 30 April 2020 30 April 2020
From NNEPRA:
Amtrak Downeaster service is temporarily suspended due to COVID-19 and associated travel-related restrictions. The suspension will remain in effect through at least May 31, 2020. Please check back for updates.
We are working closely with our station community partners and Amtrak to protect the health and safety of our passengers and crews when service returns.
- Train equipment used in Downeaster service has been sanitized, and Amtrak has implemented enhanced cleaning protocols to ensure that the equipment will be disinfected daily once Downeaster service resumes.
- Although Downeaster stations in Maine and NH are currently closed, stations are being equipped with information and resources consistent with social and physical distancing guidelines set forth by the CDC prior to re-opening. During this closure, stations are being thoroughly cleaned in preparation for reopening.
- When service returns, the number of passengers per coach will be limited to support the social and physical distancing guidelines set forth by the CDC.
- We are using this time of suspended service to complete various track projects. Many had been scheduled later in the year and would have required service interruptions. By getting them done now, it will enable us to operate an even more reliable service when we return.
Ticket Refunds & Cancellations
Amtrak is waiving change fees for reservations made before May 31, 2020. To modify a reservation, log in to your account, go to ‘Modify Trip’ on Amtrak.com, or find your reservation from your account on the home screen in the Amtrak app. A fare difference may apply to your new itinerary. If you want to cancel your reservation with no fee, you must call 1-800-USA-RAIL and speak with an agent (not available via Amtrak.com or the app).
For more information visit: https://www.amtrak.com/coronavirus
John Middleton Passes Away
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- Created: 28 March 2020 28 March 2020
John Middleton, a long-serving and dedicated member of TrainRiders/NE, passed away on March 21st. John was 95. John was an exemplary Train Host as well as the manager of our membership list. He was also on the board of the Trolley Musem in Kennebunkport, The picture, from the museum, captures his passion for rail transportation.
John's son, David, provided the following obituary.
TrainRiders/NE Train Host Service Suspended
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- Created: 15 March 2020 15 March 2020
In order to reduce the risks of viral infection and the spread of the Coronavirus, the Train Host service has been suspended until April 15th.
Each Friday, during that period, Chairman Wayne Davis and Trainmaster Jim Oikle will review the situation with NNEPRA and Amtrak with the goal of returning the hosts to the train as soon as the risk has subsided.
Many of our hosts are older adults and like many retirees, they are considered to be at 'higher risk.'
Since helping passengers is their primary goal, they'll miss their assignments on the train.