We have good news for Detroit-Chicago train commuters.
If you live in Detroit or Chicago, or in the surrounding areas, this one is for you. It’s even better if you are a commuter who frequents the Amtrak rail system. Of course you know that making the trek to work, school, or beyond costs you a lot of time. The minutes add up quickly when you are traveling long distances. Because of this, even the slightest delay affects your entire schedule and may set back your entire day. Fortunately, Amtrak has your back when it comes to punctuality. Their latest project offers promising improvements to transportation travel time.
Take note of these time savings on your next Amtrak journey.
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) recently invested $384 million dollars towards improving the current infrastructure. The benefits of the train upgrade venture are twofold. Firstly, a large majority of the old train track is receiving a much-needed upgrade. The trains should run smoother over the new rail structure. Additionally, MDOT intends to increase the maximum speeds of certain Amtrak trains from 79 to 110 mph by the end of the year. On the change, MDOT spokesperson Michael Frezell notes, “Positive train control is a computer system that can take control of the (train) in the event that the engineer may be going too fast.” This technology should quell any anxieties travelers might have about riding in a faster train.
Particularly in Chicago, travelers of the Amtrak Wolverine and Blue Water routes can expect decreased delays in the near future. According to MDOT, the Wolverine Service has improved substantially, with travel time cut by over 20 minutes. The transit between Detroit and Chicago is also anticipating a 20 minute decrease. This makes a difference, considering a trip between these major cities can last up to four to five hours by train.
On your next Amtrak ride, you can sit back and relax knowing that you are reaching your destination faster than ever.
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