Record Ridership and New Website at Amtrak Cascades

WSDOT launched a redesigned Amtrak Cascades redesigned today.

http://www.amtrakcascades.com/

On first glance, it is a little busy but overall I really like it.  Too many times transit agencies and government transportation providers don't sell their services, they just provide the bare bones information.  This website breaks that mold.  It is combines Amtrak Cascades successful marketing campaign (tweet to Tacoma, or email to Olympia) with catchy visuals and useful rider information.  Huge props to WSDOT marketing folks and whomever their outside consultant was.

In related news, their marketing efforts (and increasing gas prices) seem to be paying off.  WSDOT reports that Amtrak Cascades broke another ridership record last quarter with an increase of 8% ridership compared to 2010 numbers. Between April-June this year 231,194 rode Amtrak Cascades; that means 16,550 new people chose to hop on the rails and leave their cars at home.

The bottom line is, ridership is up, Washingtonians want more intercity rail service, and thanks to Obama's rail program we are going to get increased service in the Seattle-Portland coordinator.  Big props to WSDOT's rail program and all of you Amtrak riders out there.

Breaking News: Amtrak Cascades Now Equiped With Wifi!

Amtrak Cascades and WSDOT just announced that Wi-Fi on Amtrak Cascades has arrived!  This much anticipated event is great news for business and pleasure travelers taking Amtrak Cascades between Eugene and Vancouver B.C.

This is great news and timing with two new round trips between Seattle and Portland coming online in the next few years.  So enjoy your new found Wi-Fi on the train and you can e-mail your way all the way to Portland!

Here is the information:

Amtrak Cascades® now connects you to more than your destination. Our customers asked for Wi-Fi service, and we answered by equipping every Amtrak Cascades train from Vancouver, B.C. to Eugene, Oregon with FREE wireless Internet service. Now you can stay connected to the office, e-mail, entertainment, and anywhere else the Internet takes you along your route. Just remember to pack your laptop, smartphone, and other portable Wi-Fi-enabled devices the next time you travel. Hop aboard, hop online, and enjoy the journey.

Amtrak Cascades between Oregon and Eugene will be Buses for a lot of August

This just in from WSDOT. Buses will replace the trains that aren't running. Plan accordingly.

Canceled service for Amtrak Cascades trains in Oregon between August 2 -17

Due to scheduled track work, the following Amtrak Cascades trains are cancelled between Portland and Eugene, OR:

August 2 – 507 & 509
August 3 – 500 & 504
August 9 – 507 & 509
August 10 – 500 & 504
August 16 – 507 & 509
August 17 – 500 & 504

Amtrak Cascades Renovation

WSDOT is working with Amtrak to get ready for the next phase of renovations to the Amtrak Cascades train fleet. First up is the complete renovation of the Bistro and Lounge cars, in addition to adding Wi-Fi and upgrading the video system. The renovation will begin shortly after the conclusion of the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver, B.C. this March. Amtrak and WSDOT are looking for feedback on the concept drawing of the renovated Bistro car, take a look and let them know what you think.

The Second Train to Vancouver is Coming August 19th

Celebrate the Primary Election by taking the second train from Seattle to Vancouver, B.C. This is a overdue and exciting breakthrough for intercity rail travel on the Cascade Corridor. It is crazy that the Canadian Immigrations stalled this process at all. Regardless I am glad to see the deal finally came through! Passengers will now be able to ride from Portland to B.C. on one continuous train.

A full release is here on the WDSOT Site:
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/08/08122009_AmtrakCascadessecondtrain.htm