We sent an earlier email about the strong August ridership figures - up 34.3% over August of last year. At today's NNEPRA Board Meeting, Executive Director Patricia Quinn added context to that headline.

August, 2008 was the first ever 50,000+ ridership month - 50,854 - making it the busiest month in Downeaster history.

August, 2008 had the highest monthly revenue ever recorded - $771,936 - exceeding August of '07 by 38.2%.

The 5th roundtrip was added in August, 2007.

Travel between Maine stations and Boston increased about 32%.

Riders traveling between Saco, Old Orchard Beach or Wells and Boston increased approximately 45% over last year.

In spite of the low On Time Performance of 52.9% (speed restrictions, broken culvert replacement, Merrimac River Bridge issues), the Customer Satisfaction Index stood at 91%. Amtrak's system-wide CSI was only 78%.

Yes, the Downeaster is the right solution at the right time.