(June 9, 2023) Attention, Michigan travelers! Amtrak has recently announced a temporary service alert that will affect routes from several cities in Michigan to Chicago. Beginning July 31st and lasting through the first week in October, operations on these routes will be suspended. This article provides an overview of the affected cities and trains and important information for passengers planning to travel during this period.
The service suspension will impact trains running through the following Michigan cities: New Buffalo, Niles, Dowagiac, Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Albion, Jackson, Ann Arbor, and Dearborn. Passengers boarding or disembarking at these locations should take note of the service interruption during the specified period.
Modified Schedule for Wolverine Trains: The Wolverine Trains 350 and 353 will not operate between Pontiac and Chicago from Monday through Thursday. However, these trains will continue to run on Fridays through Sundays. If you have travel plans on these routes, adjust your schedule to avoid inconvenience.
During the temporary closure, Amtrak and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will focus on maintenance and infrastructure improvement along the affected routes. This work is essential to ensure the railway system’s safety and reliability and enhance the passengers’ overall travel experience.
Although some trains will be affected by the service suspension, other routes will continue to operate as usual. The Blue Water Trains 364 and 365 and Trains 351, 352, 354, and 355 will not be impacted by the temporary closure. Passengers traveling to or from Michigan can consider these alternative options to reach their destinations during maintenance.
If you have already made travel arrangements or are considering a trip during the affected period, staying updated and planning is crucial. Amtrak recommends checking its official website or contacting its customer service for the latest updates on train schedules and alternative transportation options.
While the temporary suspension of Amtrak services from various cities in Michigan to Chicago may cause inconvenience for travelers, it is important to remember that these measures are being taken to improve the railway system’s infrastructure. Amtrak and the Michigan DOT aim to enhance safety, reliability, and overall passenger experience by undertaking maintenance work during this period. As always, staying informed and planning will help ensure a smoother journey.