Non-stop Acela launches between NYC and Washington NEWSWIRE

NEW YORK — The resumption of weekday Express Acela service to Washington on Monday saw southbound train 2401 leave New York’s Pennsylvania Station at 6:35 a.m. on a two hour and thirty-five minute schedule: it heralded another effort to provide non-stop service, which had been operated sporadically over the last 50 years, by both Penn Central and Amtrak.

With more than 170 passengers aboard in both business and first classes, the train, led by Amtrak Acela power unit No. 2037, pulled out on schedule on its 225-mile non-stop journey to the Nation’s Capital, with a new enhancement; rolling carts in business class, pushed by an assistant first class attendant who distributed complementary breakfast beverages and snacks to passengers at their seats.

Amtrak Vice President of Northeast Corridor Service Line Caroline Decker briefed media representatives on specifics before the train’s departure from New York. She noted the northbound train will depart Washington at 4:30 p.m. for an arrival at New York’s Pennsylvania Station at 7:05 p.m. is expected to generate more passengers; on this return trip, the carts will sell appropriate beverages and snacks. Decker also mentioned that most morning Acelas in each direction, at this time, are full between New York and Washington.

While the Acela Nonstop is currently only available once per day only on weekdays between New York and Washington, Amtrak will be looking at more of these trains in regard to location and frequency.

Riders on the inaugural trip were pleased to arrive in Washington three minutes early.