The problem is that Michigan Central station is not on Amtrak's current Chicago-Pontiac route. Using the MC station would require a probably lengthy backup move or the elimination of service north of Detroit. Neither one seems a good option at the moment.
CHTT1 wrote:The problem is that Michigan Central station is not on Amtrak's current Chicago-Pontiac route. Using the MC station would require a probably lengthy backup move or the elimination of service north of Detroit. Neither one seems a good option at the moment.Not THAT long of a backing move. Actually, no backing move at all - it would just be reversing direction with the engineer changing ends to the cab car or second locomotive. It slipped my mind that the Wolverines operate with F40 cabbages and will operate with Siemens Viaggio Brightline cab cars once they’re delivered. Only somewhat obnoxious, not a big pain with a conductor hanging off a Horizon with a brake hose in 10 degree weather and horizontal sleet.
New Center is a good station location and I hope it remains Amtrak’s main stop, at least until light rail reaches MCS at an indeterminate time in the future. Kind of like how Atlanta Peachtree is inadequate, but better than any other location save downtown. In the future, I’d like it to fulfill a North Philadelphia or Washington L’Enfant role for commuter rail too.