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I'm trying to map the new Downeaster route from Portland to Freeport & Brunswick. According to Google Earth and Google Maps, it looks like the train will have to make a backup move into Portland from the former B & M (now Pan Am) main line. I see no other way it can get to the Portland station from the north. Is this right, or am I missing something?
Gilbert B Norman Member # 1541
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In view of that the Downeaster sets have control units on either end, the backup may not be necessary. However, in that case for passengers ending up riding backwards for any portion of their journey, "sorry 'bout that".
Oh well, guess they "never should have chopped 'er down", that mausoleum was run-through; both Ocala Mike and myself can confirm first hand.
RRRICH Member # 1418
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Gil -- please check your e-mail. I sent you a Google Earth image concerning this question, since I don't know how to post images onto this forum. I don't believe you understood my question quite right......
Gilbert B Norman Member # 1541
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Now I do; I agree there is a directional issue.
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Thanks so much, Geoff!! I kinda figured that was the routing the train has to take now.
Geoff Mayo Member # 153
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It's kind of an awkward situation for them. As I understand it, the current station is an intermodal transportation center to some degree, so they don't want to lose that. To build another station means doubling the costs, for running two stations. So I guess the cheapest option for the moment is that back-up move. I assume that can be achieved solely by the on-board crew (conductor on the back during the reverse move) so the only cost is time.
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That's great to see! Apparently the Boston area did not have any effects from Sandy, so they were able to get the new Downeaster service started. Great -- one last "stimulus-based" AMTRAK expansion from the Obama era (?)
If Romney gets elected and cuts 90% of AMTRAK, hopefully at least some of the AMTRAK corridors will continue in operation. Now they need a Chicago-northern Michigan corridor!
JoeR Member # 2633
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I just rode the new extension last week, and operationally, leaving Portland to Freeport and Brunswick the train does have to back up for proper positioning. On the return from Brunswick, the train does the backup move prior to loading passengers in the Portland station, persumably so their travel time is not extended. This move adds at least 8 minutes to the Portland-Brunswick travel time. I spoke with the conductor, and she told me patronize thus far has been fairly dismal on the extension... hopefully this is not fuel for the fire of critics! All are hoping that once word catches on patronige will improve.
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