What is the Amtrak Wolverine service?

The Wolverine is a higher-speed passenger train service operated by Amtrak as part of its Michigan Services. It runs three daily round-trips between Chicago, Illinois, and Pontiac, Michigan, covering a distance of 304 miles and passing through key cities like Ann Arbor and Detroit.

What is the historical lineage of the Wolverine train name?

The Wolverine train carries a heritage name that traces back to the New York Central Railroad, specifically its Michigan Central operations. This lineage connects the modern Amtrak service to a long history of rail travel in the region.

What was the state of passenger rail service between Chicago and Detroit before Amtrak's formation?

Before Amtrak took over most private-sector passenger rail operations in 1971, the route between Chicago and Detroit was served by three trains operated by the Michigan Central, which was part of Penn Central. The Wolverine was one of these trains, and under Penn Central, it extended through Ontario, Canada, to Buffalo, New York.

How did Amtrak initially manage the Wolverine service after its takeover?

Upon taking over passenger rail services, Amtrak retained two of the three trains that previously operated between Chicago and Detroit. While the service was truncated to end in Detroit, the operational changes were otherwise minimal initially.

What significant equipment change occurred on the Michigan route in April 1975?

In April 1975, Amtrak introduced French-built Turboliner equipment to the Chicago-Detroit corridor and also added a third daily round-trip service. This modernization aimed to improve service and attract more passengers.

What impact did the introduction of Turboliners have on ridership?

The introduction of the Turboliners led to substantial gains in ridership. Passenger numbers surged, reaching over 340,000 in 1975 and exceeding 370,000 in 1976, demonstrating the appeal of the new equipment and increased service frequency.

What limitations did the Turboliners face despite their advanced technology?

Despite being fast and visually striking, the Turboliners were hampered by the poor condition of the Penn Central tracks in Michigan, preventing them from reaching their designed top speed of 125 mph. Furthermore, their fixed five-car configuration, with a capacity of 292 passengers, often proved insufficient for the growing demand.

When did Amtrak begin replacing Turboliners with conventional equipment on the Michigan route?

Starting in March 1976, Amtrak began replacing some of the Turboliners with more conventional equipment, including new Amfleet coaches. This transition also saw the return of individual train names to the corridor.

When were the last Turboliners retired from the Michigan corridor?

The last of the Turboliner trainsets were retired from service on the Michigan corridor in 1981.

When did Amtrak extend the Wolverine and Twilight Limited services to Pontiac, Michigan?

Amtrak extended the Wolverine and Twilight Limited services to Pontiac, Michigan, on May 5, 1994. This extension also included the opening of a new station in Detroit's New Center area and new stops in Royal Oak and Troy.

What happened to the Michigan Central Station in Detroit?

The historic Michigan Central Station in Corktown, Detroit, closed on January 6, 1988. Following the extension of services to Pontiac, trains continued to stop at a temporary platform located just east of the former station.

When did Amtrak discontinue using individual names for the Michigan corridor trains?

Amtrak dropped the individual train names for the Michigan corridor services again in 2004, rebranding all three trains as the Wolverine.

What was the purpose of the additional Wolverine frequency tested in September 2010?

In September 2010, Amtrak tested an additional round-trip frequency between Chicago and Kalamazoo. This test was conducted to assess the operational requirements and feasibility should Amtrak decide to implement such increased service in the future.

When did the Michigan City station close, and how was it served prior to closure?

The Michigan City station closed on April 4, 2022. Prior to its closure, it was served by one and a half round trips daily.

How does the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) define high-speed rail service?

The Federal Railroad Administration defines high-speed rail service as any rail service that reaches speeds of 110 miles per hour (177 km/h) or higher at any point during its operation.

When was the Detroit-Chicago corridor designated as a high-speed rail corridor?

The Detroit-Chicago corridor was designated as a high-speed rail corridor by the Federal Railroad Administration in 2006.

What federal funding was allocated to improve track speeds in Michigan for high-speed rail?

In October 2010, the State of Michigan received US$150 million in federal funding. This funding was specifically designated to increase track speeds to 110 mph (177 km/h) on the corridor between Kalamazoo and Dearborn.

What track improvements were completed between Battle Creek and Jackson to facilitate higher speeds?

Work completed between Battle Creek and Jackson included replacing 26,000 railroad ties, repairing or installing 15 track switches, realigning or modifying 29 railroad curves, repairing 23 railroad grade crossings, and improving road profiles at crossings. These upgrades were finished in 2016.

Which segment of the Wolverine's route is owned by Amtrak, and why is it significant?

Amtrak owns the 97-mile (156 km) stretch of the Wolverine's route from Porter, Indiana, to Kalamazoo, Michigan. This segment is notable as it represents the longest stretch of track owned by Amtrak outside of the Northeast Corridor.

What track upgrades have been made to the Amtrak-owned segment between Porter and Kalamazoo?

Beginning in January 2002, Amtrak initiated track improvements along the Porter to Kalamazoo segment. These improvements have allowed Amtrak trains to achieve top speeds of 110 mph (177 km/h) on this section of track.

When did MDOT purchase trackage between Kalamazoo and Dearborn, and what was the purpose?

In December 2012, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) completed the purchase of 135 miles (217 km) of track from Norfolk Southern between Kalamazoo and Dearborn. This acquisition was intended to facilitate track maintenance and future upgrades to support 110 mph (180 km/h) operations.

When was the maximum speed increased to 110 mph on the Kalamazoo to Albion section?

The maximum speed on the 45-mile (72 km) section between Kalamazoo and Albion was increased to 110 mph (177 km/h) on May 25, 2021.

What were the projected increases for the Wolverine line by 2035?

According to a June 2014 report for MDOT, the number of round trips on the Wolverine line was projected to increase from three to ten by the year 2035. The report also anticipated that about 75% of the route would feature double-tracking by that time.

What was the status of double-tracking on the Wolverine route as of 2015?

As of 2015, approximately 160 miles (260 km) of the Wolverine line was not yet double-tracked.

What happened with the proposed train platform in Ypsilanti?

Ypsilanti approved $2 million for a new train platform in Depot Town in March 2016, estimating it would attract 9,000 annual riders. However, the city rescinded the funding in June 2020 after failing to secure a federal grant for the project. The last train to serve Ypsilanti was the Twilight Limited in 1985.

What proposal did Amtrak make in August 2019 regarding service expansion?

In August 2019, Amtrak proposed extending at least one daily round trip from Detroit to Toronto, Canada, via the Windsor-Quebec City Corridor. This extension would necessitate track upgrades and the establishment of a border processing facility.

When is the proposed extension of the Wolverine service to Toronto planned to begin?

The proposed extension of the Wolverine service to Toronto is planned to commence in 2027, pending necessary customs approvals and track infrastructure upgrades.

Which railroads' trackage does the Wolverine service operate on?

The Wolverine operates on trackage owned by Norfolk Southern Railway, Amtrak, Conrail, and Canadian National Railway. Specifically, it uses the NS Chicago Line, the Amtrak Chicago-Detroit Line, MDOT-owned Michigan Line, CR Michigan Line, and CN Shore Line and Holly Subdivisions.

What are the primary Amtrak routes that share trackage with the Wolverine service?

The Wolverine shares trackage with other Amtrak services, including the Blue Water, Borealis, Hiawatha, Illini and Saluki, Illinois Zephyr and Carl Sandburg, Lincoln Service, and Pere Marquette trains, particularly in the Chicago and Michigan segments.

What connections are available at Chicago Union Station for the Wolverine?

Chicago Union Station serves as a major hub, offering connections to numerous other Amtrak long-distance and intercity routes, as well as Metra commuter rail lines and the Chicago 'L' public transit system. Amtrak Thruway bus services to various cities also depart from here.

Which stations on the Wolverine route also serve the Amtrak Blue Water train?

The stations of New Buffalo, Kalamazoo, and Battle Creek are served by both the Wolverine and the Amtrak Blue Water train.

What public transportation options are available at the Kalamazoo Transportation Center?

The Kalamazoo Transportation Center provides connections to Amtrak's Blue Water service, local Metro Transit buses, and intercity bus services from Indian Trails and Greyhound Lines.

What public transportation connections are available at the Detroit station?

The Detroit station offers connections to the QLine streetcar, DDOT and Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) buses, and Amtrak Thruway bus services.

Which stations on the Wolverine route have been closed?

The Michigan City station closed on April 4, 2022. Additionally, the Greenfield Village station closed in 2014, and the Birmingham station also closed in 2014.

What type of passenger cars are used on the Wolverine service?

The Wolverine service currently utilizes Siemens Venture coaches, including business class and cafe cars. Amfleet cars are also still in use, and Horizon cars were used until early 2025, as the Venture cars are gradually being phased into service.

How are the Siemens Charger locomotives configured on the Wolverine trains?

The Siemens Charger locomotives operate in a push-pull configuration, with one locomotive positioned at each end of the train consist. This setup allows for efficient operation and turnaround times at terminals.

What was the Michigan Department of Transportation's plan regarding new passenger equipment in the mid-2010s?

Between 2016 and 2018, Michigan anticipated receiving new bilevel cars to replace the older Horizon and Amfleet cars. In early 2014, MDOT also issued a request for proposals to acquire additional passenger equipment for use between 2014 and 2017.

What happened with the proposed purchase of Talgo trainsets for the Wolverine?

In September 2014, Michigan agreed to buy two trainsets from Spanish manufacturer Talgo for $58 million. These trains, previously built for Wisconsin, were intended to upgrade passenger amenities. However, they remained in storage and were eventually considered for the Amtrak Cascades route before being sold to Nigeria.

Why did the planned order for bilevel cars for the Wolverine not materialize?

The order for bilevel cars did not proceed because the manufacturer's critical crash test failed. Consequently, the order was changed to new single-level Siemens Venture cars, similar to those used by Brightline.

When did Siemens Venture cars begin testing on the Wolverine route?

By January 2021, some Siemens Venture cars had been delivered to Amtrak for testing and were being deployed on the Wolverine route for trial runs.

What is the significance of the Wolverine's average journey time?

The average journey time for the Wolverine service is approximately six hours for the 304-mile route. This translates to an average speed of about 50.7 mph, considering stops.

What is the track gauge used by the Wolverine service?

The Wolverine operates on standard gauge track, which is 4 feet 8.5 inches (1,435 mm).

What is the maximum operating speed of the Wolverine service?

The Wolverine service operates at speeds up to 110 mph (177 km/h) on certain upgraded sections of the route. The average operating speed, including stops, is approximately 52 mph (84 km/h).

What is the total number of stops made by the Wolverine train on its route?

The Wolverine train makes a total of 17 stops along its route between Chicago and Pontiac.

What catering facilities are available on the Wolverine?

The Wolverine is equipped with a Café Car, providing food and beverage services to passengers.

What is the historical context of the train numbers used by the Wolverine service?

The train numbers 350, 352, and 354 for eastbound, and 351, 353, and 355 for westbound, are still in use today. These numbers were originally assigned when Amtrak introduced the Turboliners to the Michigan route in the 1970s.

What is the purpose of the 'See also' section in the article?

The 'See also' section provides links to related articles that may offer additional context or information on topics relevant to the Wolverine train, such as the Ohio Hub or other Amtrak services.

What does the 'Notes' section clarify regarding Amtrak's fiscal year?

The 'Notes' section clarifies that Amtrak's Fiscal Year (FY) runs from October 1 of the preceding year to September 30 of the year indicated. This is important for understanding ridership data and operational timelines.

What media resources are available for the Wolverine train on Wikimedia Commons?

Wikimedia Commons hosts a category dedicated to the Wolverine train, containing various media files such as photographs and diagrams related to the service.

Wolverine Train Wiki: The Wolverine Line: A Journey Through Michigan's Rails

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Service Overview

Service Definition

The Wolverine is a higher-speed passenger train service operated by Amtrak as part of its Michigan Services. It provides three daily round-trips connecting Chicago, Illinois, with Pontiac, Michigan, traversing a significant portion of the Midwest.

Route and Distance

The service covers a distance of 304 miles (489 km), operating between Chicago Union Station and Pontiac Transportation Center. Key intermediate cities include Ann Arbor and Detroit, making it a crucial link for these major metropolitan areas.

Operational Metrics

The average journey time for the Wolverine is approximately 6 hours. The service frequency consists of three daily round-trips, ensuring consistent connectivity throughout the day. Train numbers for this service are 350, 352, 354 (eastbound) and 351, 353, 355 (westbound).

Ridership

In Fiscal Year 2023, the Wolverine demonstrated robust ridership, carrying 420,569 passengers. This represented a notable increase of 14.5% compared to the previous fiscal year, indicating growing demand for this service.

Historical Context

Origins and Amtrak Transition

Prior to Amtrak's formation in 1971, the route was served by trains like the Wolverine under Penn Central. Amtrak retained two services, truncating the route to Detroit and making minimal initial changes. The service inherited train numbers that are still in use today.

The Turboliner Era

In April 1975, Amtrak introduced French-built Turboliner equipment, which led to significant ridership increases. These trains, though fast, were limited by track quality. By March 1976, Amtrak began supplementing them with conventional equipment like Amfleet coaches, and individual train names were reintroduced.

The Turboliners, despite their advanced design, struggled to reach their potential speeds due to track conditions. Their limited capacity also became a bottleneck. This led to a gradual replacement starting in 1976, with the last Turboliners being retired from the corridor in 1981. The service saw the return of named trains, including the Twilight Limited.

Service Evolution and Modernization

Amtrak extended the Wolverine and Twilight Limited to Pontiac, Michigan, in May 1994, introducing new stations and a new Detroit station location. Individual train names were again consolidated under the Wolverine branding in 2004. More recently, the service has seen upgrades with Siemens Charger locomotives and Siemens Venture passenger cars, enhancing both performance and passenger amenities.

Route and Infrastructure

Track Ownership and Segments

The Wolverine operates over a complex network of tracks owned by various entities. Key segments include Amtrak-owned trackage between Porter, Indiana, and Kalamazoo, Michigan (the longest Amtrak-owned segment outside the Northeast Corridor), and trackage owned by Norfolk Southern, Canadian National, and MDOT.

Higher-Speed Operation

The corridor is recognized as a high-speed rail corridor by the Federal Railroad Administration. Significant investments have been made to upgrade track speeds, with sections now allowing operation up to 110 mph (177 km/h). These upgrades involve track replacement, curve modifications, and grade crossing improvements.

Key Stations and Connections

Major Stops

The Wolverine serves 17 stations along its route. Notable stops include Chicago Union Station, Kalamazoo Transportation Center, Ann Arbor Station, Detroit Station, and the terminal in Pontiac, Michigan.

The service connects the following locations:

Chicago, Illinois
Hammond–Whiting, Indiana
New Buffalo, Michigan
Niles, Michigan
Dowagiac, Michigan
Kalamazoo Transportation Center, Michigan
Battle Creek Transportation Center, Michigan
Albion, Michigan
Jackson, Michigan
Ann Arbor Station, Michigan
John D. Dingell Transit Center, Dearborn, Michigan
Detroit Station, Michigan
Royal Oak, Michigan
Troy Transit Center, Michigan
Pontiac Transportation Center, Michigan

Note: Michigan City, Indiana station closed April 4, 2022. Greenfield Village station is closed. Birmingham station closed 2014.

Intermodal Connections

The Wolverine provides critical connections to various local and intercity transit systems. At major hubs like Chicago Union Station, passengers can access Amtrak's long-distance and other intercity services, Metra commuter rail, and the Chicago 'L' system. Stations in Michigan offer connections to local bus services (like TheRide in Ann Arbor, DDOT and SMART in Detroit) and intercity bus providers such as Greyhound.

Rolling Stock

Locomotives

The Wolverine is primarily powered by state-owned Siemens Charger locomotives. These modern diesel-electric locomotives are equipped with Positive Train Control (PTC) systems, a requirement for operating above 79 mph, making them essential for the higher-speed segments of the route. They operate in a push-pull configuration.

Passenger Cars

The fleet consists of Siemens Venture passenger cars, including business class cars and cafe cars. Historically, Amfleet and Horizon cars were used, and some may still be in service during the transition period. The Venture cars represent a significant upgrade in passenger amenities and comfort.

Future Developments

International Expansion

Amtrak has proposed extending service from Detroit to Toronto, Canada, via the Windsor–Quebec City Corridor. This ambitious plan requires significant track upgrades and the establishment of border processing facilities, with service tentatively planned to commence in 2027, pending approvals.

Infrastructure Enhancements

Long-range plans include increasing the frequency of round trips and expanding double-tracking along the route to improve reliability and speed. These infrastructure investments are crucial for supporting higher operational speeds and increased service levels, aligning with broader goals for passenger rail development in the region.

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References

MDOT â MDOT seeks to improve both passenger and freight rail lines with purchase of Norfolk Southern Railway track

A full list of references for this article are available at the Wolverine (train) Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This content has been generated by an AI model and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the provided source material, it may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date.

This is not professional travel advice. Information regarding schedules, services, and operational status should always be verified with the official Amtrak website or direct contact. Reliance on this information for travel planning is solely at the user's own risk.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Wolverine Line

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Service Overview ℹ️

🚂 Service Definition

📍 Route and Distance

⏱️ Operational Metrics

📈 Ridership

Historical Context ⏳

📜 Origins and Amtrak Transition

🚀 The Turboliner Era

🏛️ Service Evolution and Modernization

Route and Infrastructure 🗺️

🛤️ Track Ownership and Segments

⚡ Higher-Speed Operation

Key Stations and Connections 🏛️

📍 Major Stops

🔗 Intermodal Connections

Rolling Stock ⚙️

🚆 Locomotives

💺 Passenger Cars

Future Developments 🚀

🌍 International Expansion

🚄 Infrastructure Enhancements

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Service Overview

Service Definition

Route and Distance

Operational Metrics

Ridership

Historical Context

Origins and Amtrak Transition

The Turboliner Era

Service Evolution and Modernization

Route and Infrastructure

Track Ownership and Segments

Higher-Speed Operation

Key Stations and Connections

Major Stops

Intermodal Connections

Rolling Stock

Locomotives

Passenger Cars

Future Developments

International Expansion

Infrastructure Enhancements

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice