I started this thread for the exchange of ideas and opinions on possible changes in the Amtrak system.
Here are a couple of things I see happening.
Given that Amtrak is experiencing solid growth on certain routes, that growth cannot continue without changes. Therefore,I see the employment of multi-level Amtrak trains in the very near future. For instance, on the North East Corridor, Penn station cannot handle any additional capacity under the current system of operation. More trains cannot be added and additional capacity by lengthening the trains cannot be gained either. The existing NEC trains are currently at or near full station length. As I see it the only way to gain additional capacity is with the addition of multi-level trains similar to what NJT and MARC now use. These fit through the tunnels to NYP ( and BLT) and can boost capacity. Such a car could be based on the Bombardier MLV design with an improved interior featuring Amtrak type seats and legroom. These trains currently have luggage racks overhead.
The continued growth of Amtrak must bring about some changes and the multi-level coaches seem the most likely solution for the Eastern routes. The Western routes already use Superliner equipment so it may be a simple matter of adding a few more coaches and lengthening platforms where possible. I know that some here may disagree with the multi-level solution but I cannot imagine any other scenario as being viable. At the current rate of growth Amtrak is likely to have 25% to 30% more passengers in five years.
How Amtrak will address the capacity challenge for continued growth is a question that must be answered.
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