Hello Reader,

Welcome back! The weekend is approaching!

This is a longer email, but feel free to skim it as needed. If you know someone who might be interested in this information, please share it with them.

All Aboard the Future: The Long-Awaited NextGen Acela Debuts August 28!

After a long wait, Amtrak enters a new chapter! Starting Thursday, August 28, 2025, the sleek and fast NextGen Acela trains will begin transporting passengers between Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston.

Highlights:

• More seats. Less wait. Five new trains are scheduled to start running in August, bringing the total number to 28 by 2027. That’s a 27% boost in seats, perfect for last-minute planners.
• Stay connected on the go. Enjoy faster 5G Wi‑Fi, power outlets, and cozy reading lights—ideal for staying entertained or working while on the go.
• American-made, supporting American jobs. Built in Hornell, NY, with components from 29 states—creating thousands of jobs.
• Part of a larger upgrade. The NextGen Acela rollout is part of Amtrak’s comprehensive plan, which includes new train models, refreshed interiors, and more reliable long-distance service.

Why it matters:

Whether you’re new to train travel or an experienced Amtrak rider, the NextGen Acela offers something for everyone: more innovative design, more space, stronger Wi‑Fi, and a sleek, modern onboard experience.

Flooding Disrupts Milwaukee Rail Service

We received some rain in my backyard this weekend—though “little” doesn’t quite describe what hit Milwaukee County!

Heavy rains dropped more than 14 inches in some areas, flooding tracks along the CPKC main line and yard in Wauwatosa, WI. This busy route carries both freight and Amtrak trains, including the Empire Builder and Borealis.

Service was interrupted, with bus bridges established, and some trains experienced delays of up to 13 hours.

CPKC crews worked quickly to reopen the line late Sunday night (August 10), but delays persisted into Monday. Amtrak trains seem to be running normally, but these backups may still impact CPKC trains.

Videos and photos of those areas show washed-out tracks in rail yards and water flowing over rail bridges. Whenever these events happen, track inspectors must carefully check for damage before allowing trains—especially passenger trains—to resume operation.

The photos below show the Southbound Borealis bus bridge in action, provided by Nicholas L., who works for the company Amtrak hired to transport passengers. And a past roommate, hey!

In situations like this, railroads always prioritize safety.

For something different…

This appeared on my YouTube feed, and I want to try it, do you?

Discover Canada’s hidden treasure—the Tsal’lh Seton Train. This little-known passenger line passes through stunning scenery you won’t see on the usual rail routes. If you enjoy scenic, offbeat train journeys, this one’s for you.

Would you do this? Should we plan a Travels with Kev trip?

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What has Kev been up to?

It was hard saying goodbye to my sister and the kids on Friday. We had a great summer—lots of laughs, a little chaos, and plenty of memories.

Like most people, we all had plans for this summer. And, like most summers, many of those plans didn’t quite work out.

But you know what? That’s not always a bad thing.

I’ve learned over the years that some of the best moments happen when things don’t go as planned. This summer reminded me of that.

Even though we enjoyed our time, I have to admit—it's good to get my desk back. And the kids have gone back to their routines and their own space.

Thankfully, the goodbye isn’t for long. I’ll be heading down in a few weeks to bring my mom to stay with them in September, then I’ll go back to bring her home. I also plan to take my parents with me for the holidays in November.

So for now, it’s “see you soon” to them.

Looking at the Markers

Thanks for reading and riding along with me!

Your support—whether it's sharing the newsletter, sending a kind note, or lending a hand—means everything to me.

If you’d like to help keep this free resource going, visit my Support​ Page to find options, such as PayPal, Buy Me a Coffee, and others that you can use for one-time or recurring support. Or click the green button below.

Every contribution, big or small, helps drive the journey, and together, we’re inspiring more people to explore the world, one train trip at a time.

Until Next Week…

Happy planning and safe travels,
Kev Monteith