Amtrak brings in replacement cars as stopgap measure on Cascades route

Amtrak has recently initiated the replacement of its aging Horizon trainsets on the Cascades route with Amfleet I cars, addressing concerns over corrosion that led to an abrupt service halt. Following the service notice issued on March 26, Amtrak managed to resume select train services by April 1, including routes between Seattle and British Columbia. The transition to Amfleet I cars, although older than the Horizons they replace, aims to restore essential rail connectivity along the Interstate 5 corridor. Travelers are advised to book seats in advance due to limited availability, with only two coach cars and 17 business class seats on each train. Amtrak's announcement emphasizes the urgency to restore full service, which has been disrupted by the limited number of operational cars.

The current replacement strategy is a stopgap measure, as a new fleet of fuel-efficient trains is expected to launch in 2026, promising improved service in the future. This situation underscores the challenges of maintaining aging rail infrastructure while meeting the needs of commuters. The efforts reflect Amtrak's commitment to enhancing its service, despite the hurdles posed by older equipment.