Hello Reader,
This week, we learn that Amtrak updated two South Carolina stations on the Floridian (Silver Star) line. Additionally, my Amtrak Long-Distance on-time performance page has been updated with January figures.
Two South Carolina Stations Get Major Upgrades
Amtrak has wrapped up renovation projects at two South Carolina stops on the Floridian (Silver Star), Camden (CAM), and Denmark (DNK), and both are now noticeably better places to board a train for all.
The larger of the two is Camden, where a $3.5 million investment created a new 600-foot concrete boarding platform. Denmark's project cost $2.3 million, with a new 280-foot platform. Both platforms are now built eight inches above the top of the rail.
This is important because it makes stepping onto the train much easier, especially if you're traveling with luggage, mobility aids, or small kids. Both stations also received upgraded LED lighting, accessible walkways, detectable warning surfaces, and better signage.
This is part of Amtrak's ongoing ADA Stations Program. Nineteen stations achieved ADA compliance in the 12 months ending September 30, with another 50 planned for the upcoming year at an estimated cost of $311 million. The long-term goal is to achieve 100% compliance across all Amtrak-managed station components by 2029.
If you're planning a trip on the Floridian through South Carolina, both stations are in much better shape than they used to be.
Amtrak Long-Distance Train On-Time Performance
Amtrak has been updating its website recently, and I understand how much effort that takes and how frustrating it can be for users during the process.
One thing that hadn't been updated was the links on the Reports and Documents page. I kept checking to see if the on-time performance data had been posted, and hadn't seen any updates in months.
On Monday, I took a shot. Knowing how websites work, I experimented with some URLs to see whether the files were actually there but just not linked. And they were!
With this information, I was able to update my Long-Distance on-time performance page. It's a useful resource that saves you the time and effort of going through the full report yourself.
In January, three long-distance trains met or exceeded Amtrak's 80% on-time performance goal: the City of New Orleans, the Crescent, and the Palmetto. The overall average on-time rate for all long-distance trains that month was 67.4%.
Amtrak Auto Train Flash Sale — Fares from $39
If you've been considering driving to Florida this summer, Amtrak has a better option. The Auto Train is offering a flash sale now with coach fares starting at $39 plus the cost of shipping your vehicle from Lorton, VA, to Sanford, FL. Sleeper rooms begin at $239. Kids aged 2–12 get 50% off, making this a great deal for a family trip that avoids the drive entirely.
The sale runs through March 26, with travel available through July 31, so summer trips are on the table. Head over to my Auto Train page if you want to learn more before you book. But if you are ready to book, head to Amtrak.com!
What is Kev Up To?
This past week was busy! You might know I'm part of a theatre organ club as the director of public affairs. We had a concert last Saturday on the world's largest theatre organ, and it was fantastic. If you're interested, learn more about the concert and check out the video.
One of the three is my upcoming performance at my fifth annual silent film night. The church organ I play isn't a theater organ, but it does a great job providing the soundtrack for two films. I love doing it. The day after, I head back to the Camex Warehouse to watch another silent film played on that organ.
Apart from that, not much is happening here, mostly because of the weather, for we've experienced 70s, 20s, snow, rain, and a nice day thrown in. Plus, this is a busy season for us church organists.
Thank You!
I want to sincerely thank John C for hitting the donate button below! It helps keep everything on track.
If you're interested in helping me continue, you can click the green button below, visit my support page for more options, or join my Patreon! With a paid Patreon membership, you get a monthly postcard and more!
Until Next Week!
Safe travels & Happy Planning,
Kev Monteith
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