Winter damage holds up Downeaster trains
The Amtrak Downeaster service is facing delays and cancellations this week due to rail damage caused by a harsh winter and heavy snow melt that has slowed down trains in several places.
The Portland Press Herald reported that about 27 noncontiguous miles of rail between Freeport and Boston have been destabilized, prompting repair efforts by the track's owner, Pan Am Railways.
The destabilized tracks have prompted the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority to cancel the 686 train that leaves Portland at 2:35 p.m. on weekdays and arrives in Boston at 5:05 p.m., and the 683 train that leaves Boston at 11:35 a.m. on weekdays and arrives in Portland at 2:05 p.m. All other trains are expected to take about 45 minutes longer in order to go slower over damaged areas.
Patricia Quinn, NNEPRA's executive director, said it could take weeks to repair the damaged tracks, adding that she is unsure whether or not the cancellations will continue into next week. Brian Beeler, manager of passenger services, said he has heard from dozens of passengers impacted by the delays.
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