Amtrak to Restore Most Suspended Empire Service Trains by December 2
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEXSTAR) — Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Amtrak will restore almost all suspended Empire Service trains starting on December 2. The trains were reduced in the Hudson Valley on November 11 due to construction on the East River Tunnel in New York City, which shut down two of the tunnel’s tubes.
Service Restorations
Amtrak will reinstate and even add some extra cars to popular lines servicing the region during the busy year-end season for regional travel. The company will also separate the Adirondack and Maple Leaf trains between New York City and Albany to reduce layovers.
New Schedule
The new schedule will last until March and covers trains 235 and 238, adding a fifth car to trains 233, 234, 244, and 245.
Governor’s Statement
"These service restorations are crucial for riders and communities," Hochul said, calling it a victory for the New Yorkers who depend on the service.
East River Tunnel Rehabilitation Project
The $1.6 billion East River Tunnel rehabilitation project targets old infrastructure damaged by Superstorm Sandy back in 2012. The project should make travel along Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor more reliable. All told, the repairs will last about three years.
Background
Amtrak had cut two daily round trips and combined the Adirondack and Maple Leaf lines between New York City and Albany. Passengers traveling through the Capital Region from across the state faced hourslong wait times at Rensselaer Rail Station across the river from Albany.
Conclusion
The restoration of Amtrak’s Empire Service trains is a significant development for commuters in the Hudson Valley. The added cars and separate trains will help reduce wait times and improve the overall travel experience. The East River Tunnel rehabilitation project is a crucial step in making travel along Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor more reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will Amtrak restore its Empire Service trains?
A: Amtrak will restore its Empire Service trains starting on December 2.
Q: Why were the trains reduced in the Hudson Valley?
A: The trains were reduced due to construction on the East River Tunnel in New York City, which shut down two of the tunnel’s tubes.
Q: What changes will be made to the train schedule?
A: Amtrak will reinstate and add extra cars to popular lines, and separate the Adirondack and Maple Leaf trains between New York City and Albany.
Q: How long will the East River Tunnel rehabilitation project last?
A: The project will last about three years.
