Several years ago someone posted info that the Sunset Limited was using paired trackage in one direction between Beaumont and Houston. Does anyone know for sure what they are currently doing? Which direction differs from the traditionl line, was this MoPac trackage, and where do the lines diverge and rejoin?
Posted by chrisg (Member # 2488) on :
When I rode it a few years ago it was eastbound on the old Missouri Pacific and westbound on the old SP Sunset Route.
Chris
Posted by SilverStar092 (Member # 2652) on :
Thanks. I had thought it was the other way around with WB on the old Mo Pac but maybe I m wrong. Also wondering where the lines diverge?
Posted by ehbowen (Member # 4317) on :
The diverging point is within a few miles of the Houston station. A short backup move is involved but I couldn't tell you exactly where, only that it happened within minutes of our pulling out of the Houston station. I couldn't tell you where the lines rejoin; just that it happens shortly before arriving Beaumont.
Posted by SilverStar092 (Member # 2652) on :
I appreciate the info. I will have to ask the conductor when I take my next ride on the Sunset.
Posted by SunsetLtd (Member # 3985) on :
Settegast Jct at Tower 87 in Houston is where it takes place. Going east the train is on the old SP route, then it backs onto the former Mopac at Tower 87 where it then crosses over the SP route and out to Beaumont. Coming west the train remains on the SP route.
Posted by gp35 (Member # 3971) on :
Here is where Mo-pac connects back with the Southern Pacific line in Beaumont. Scroll to the east[right] and you will see the Beaumont Slab. BTW, they have already started ripping up the slab.