Michigan DOT to upgrade Amtrak Wolverine route

Amtrak and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) yesterday announced a modified schedule for the Wolverine schedule through Sept. 23 as state-owned railroad infrastructure improvements are made as part of Michigan's Accelerated Rail program.

The temporary changes went into effect yesterday so that crews can perform track and signal work along the route, Amtrak and MDOT officials said in a joint press release.

The projects are aimed at improving service reliability and creating a smoother ride for passengers, as well as preparing for an expansion of the Midwest's first 110 mph service.

Although all Wolverine trains will operate on adjusted schedules, the biggest change affects Trains 352 and 353, which will operate across the full Pontiac-Chicago route on Sundays only. Normal service of three Wolverine round-trips between Battle Creek and Chicago are now operating on the modified schedule, officials said.