Amtrak has been making headlines quite often recently–especially when it comes to discounts and offers on fall foliage viewing trips. And while they’re a popular way for travelers to get around, they definitely could benefit from a few upgrades here and there.
Luckily, Amtrak announced last year a $28 million, multi-year project to improve the customer experience aboard its long distance trains, and in the last month they began rolling out new and improved comforts and features in these train cars, according to The Points Guy.
All railcars will see updated interiors including new seating cushions and upholstery, carpet, LED lighting, tables, and curtains. Bedrooms and roomettes in sleeper cars will receive upgrades to their bedding, pillows, towels, and linens, along with the installation of lotion, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash dispensers.
There were also upgrades to the café menus this past August, with the addition of more high-quality and fresh items including new hot meals, snacks, vegan options, and non-alcoholic beverages.
In total the $28 million upgrade will refresh more than 450 railcars within the next three years, modernizing cars that have been around since the 1980s and 1990s.
“We are marking a new era in customer experience for our historic routes that serve the country with comfortable and affordable coach seating and private rooms,” said Roger Harris, Amtrak Executive Vice President/Chief Marketing and Revenue Officer. “These significant investments in the long distance network lay the foundation for our next decades of service.”
Upgrading these rail cars is just one way Amtrak is trying to improve the riding experience for their customers.