You may recall that one of the grand justifications for constructing the Massive Layover Facility (MLF) in Brunswick was that the effects of ‘unexpected’ harsh winter weather would be mitigated because trains would be stored inside overnight where they would be kept safe and warm, and those arriving with caked on ice and snow could have it conveniently melted off, including on their wheel and brake system components. Operations would be vastly improved for all concerned.
Well, we suppose you could say yesterday’s deluge of happy white stuff was ‘unexpected,’ especially if you are NNEPRA and Amtrak.
Now comes word of Downeaster schedule problems today…the day after the storm…when most of us are going about our daily business and making full use of our personal transportation. A friend with professional qualifications in the field reports these deficiencies in Downeaster operation today:
682 left Brunswick 35 minutes LATE today after sitting inside the BLF all night
684 never left Brunswick after sitting in the BLF all night. (it was cancelled, and so is 685 out of Boston)
Meanwhile:
680 left Portland ON TIME today after sitting outside all night
(this sort of information is available on national real time web sites for railroad professionals)
So there you have it, you doubting Thomases and Thomasinas. Conclusive proof that those who make their living spending other peoples’ money can always be trusted, no matter how dubious their claims may seem.
Come to think of it, this turn of events sort of reminds us of the promises that were made of ‘exponential economic benefit’ for Brunswick once the Downeaster started coming to town.
We just have to be patient, we suppose. You can trust us on this; we’re not like all the others.
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