According to Trains magazine, the EB will detour between Fargo and Minot beginning Oct. 15 through Nov. 2, using BNSF’s KO Subdivision via New Rockford, ND. BNSF are raising the track level to reduce the risk of flooding beside Devils Lake, ND.
Posted by Gilbert B Norman (Member # 1541) on :
For the convenience of TRAINS subscribers, here is a link to the material noted by Mr. Mayo and appearing at their Newswire web feature.
Looks like the Empire Builder will become just that again (for a while) instead of masquerading as the Western Star as it has through the Amtrak era.
Posted by notelvis (Member # 3071) on :
Doesn't mention anything about alternate service (bus) provided for the missed stops during the detour. Safe to presume that there will be no alternate provisions?
Posted by Geoff Mayo (Member # 153) on :
I just did a test purchase of Rugby to Minot on Nov 1 and a bus appeared, #3027 with the same timings as the train. Same for Grand Forks. There's also a #3007 from Fargo to (at least) Rugby, though I think it's probably the same vehicle. The xx27 and xx07 suggest the Portland and Seattle portions but only one option appeared for each city pair I tried.
In any case, it looks like bustitution with the same timings as the train is being supplied for those not on the diversionary route.
Posted by notelvis (Member # 3071) on :
OK...... not too wild about having to ditch or board a train in the wee hours though.
Posted by Geoff Mayo (Member # 153) on :
But that's only if you need to board or disembark at one of those 3 (?) intermediate stops. At least there is an alternate provided! Some relatively rare trackage for somebody though.
Posted by Gilbert B Norman (Member # 1541) on :
NPR Morning Edition aired a segment today that portrays the Empire Builder as essential transportation to the region it serves. Within the report are stories of Bakken Oil workers who were balking at $1000 airline tickets from Seattle and are greatful that the Builder provides "a ride" for $106.
Sleepers, Dining service, and Sightseer Lounges, are not once mentioned in the segment.
In view of my consistently negative positions held regarding the ostensible "need" for LD trains for other than the means to an end to garner Federal funding, I will simply provide the link and pass further comment:
Is the EB still detouring through ND?
Posted by yukon11 (Member # 2997) on :
I wonder if the Builder could permanently take the old Western Star route through Minot-New Rockford-Hannaford-Fargo? It seems to be a shorter route, but, perhaps, speed reductions and freight congestion might make it longer. Also you would miss the geographial center of North America, Rugby, ND.