Derailment update. (chicago division)

[metsfan]

Service Alert: Service Restoration Plan between Chicago and St. Louis

 

January 15, 2009

2:30 pm CT

 

The Union Pacific Railroad route used by Lincoln Service and Texas Eagle Amtrak trains in Central Illinois will reopen for the restoration of service, after being closed following a road crossing incident on Thursday, January 15.

 

At about 9:05 am, Amtrak Lincoln Service Train 302 was involved in a collision with a large truck obstructing the tracks at Cisco Road, north of Carlnville, Ill. The marked public crossing is equipped with warning lights and bells.

 

No serious injuries were reported to the 38 passengers aboard the northbound train operating from St. Louis to Chicago. Four passengers and one Amtrak employee were taken to an area hospital to be treated and released.

 

The locomotive was damaged and a set of wheels lost contact with the tracks, but the four-car train remained upright and coupled. Passengers were taken to Carlinville High School and were transported to their destination by chartered motorcoaches, which also represented the train at all other stops.

 

Amtrak appreciates the assistance from Macoupin County emergency responders and others.

 

Lincoln Service

 

Northbound Train 306 from St. Louis and southbound Trains 305 & 307 from Chicago will operate on January 15.

 

The normal four daily Lincoln Service round-trips are expected on Friday, January 16.

 

Texas Eagle

 

The Texas Eagle, Trains 21/421 & 22/422, which ordinarily operates between Chicago and San Antonio via St. Louis, will originate and terminate in St. Louis, with chartered motorcoaches representing the train north of St. Louis and making all stops between Chicago and St. Louis, on January 15.

 

Normal Texas Eagle operations are expected on Friday, January 16.

 

Amtrak regrets any inconvenience. This information is correct as of the above time and date. Information is subject to change as conditions warrant. Passengers are encouraged to call 800-USA-RAIL or visit Amtrak.com for schedule information and train status updates.