I thought this article was pretty interesting. Especially the thought of running Amtrak through the middle of town vs. along the Sound. BNSF must want Amtrak of the line. The Biz Buzz - Denver developer plans South Tacoma warehouse park
What is the condition of this line? Isn't that NP's old Prairie Line? Seems to me it will need a major overhaul, in order for Amtrak to use it. Which I don't exactly understand, as that routing would only take passenger trains off the Portland main for a short distance. Maybe that writer got a couple of wires crossed? Boxcab E50
Ken, For about 2 years now Sounder has been planning on upgrading the whole line. They expect to bring trains through South Tacoma at about 50mph. They have already begun building the passenger stations, one at 56th st. and another along Pacific HWY near Bridgeport Way. This article was the first I had heard of Amtrak using it. Of further note, since Tacoma Rail took over the line traffic seems to have increased. I see them on the line a lot more often than BNSF ever rode across it.
I'm not surprised to read this observation. I've seen it happen many times. Hopefully, they can build up a solid customer base. Boxcab E50
