Sound Transit Commuter Train Cancellations: Amtrak Responds

Amtrak

SEATTLE –– As RT&S reported yesterday, Sound Transit issued a service alert indicating that nearly all trains on the S line had been delayed or cancelled “due to preventative maintenance scheduling issues with Amtrak."

As of 9:42 a.m. ET today, the Sound Transit website has a service alert which says “Multiple S Line trains are cancelled until further notice due to preventative maintenance scheduling issues with Amtrak. Passengers are encouraged to seek alternate transportation options.“

RT&S reached out to Amtrak yesterday regarding the Sound Transit situation and we received the following statement from an Amtrak spokesperson:

“While reviewing inspection records, Amtrak personnel proactively identified an inspection data discrepancy that required a number of Sound Transit cars to be removed from service. Amtrak is expediting inspections and maintenance of certain Sound Transit rail cars, and we expect a sufficient number of cars to return to service over the coming weeks to permit normal service levels and train lengths. 

“Amtrak, Sound Transit, and WSDOT are working together to help riders reach their destinations while we bring these cars back to service. Sounder passengers can choose to ride on Amtrak Cascades if their destinations are Tukwila, Tacoma, Edmonds, or Everett. Southbound Amtrak Cascades trains leave King Street Station today at 5:40 and 7:50 p.m. The northbound train leaves at 6:00 p.m. Passengers board from inside the station, not on the Sounder platform, and are encouraged to arrive at least 15 minutes early. Riders must show their Orca cards to the conductor as they board the train. 

“We apologize to our partner and the customers impacted by this morning’s cancellations. An investigation is underway to determine the root cause and take appropriate action.“

RT&S will continue to follow this story.