Ridership is one of the critical metrics in measuring the success of the Downeaster. The Pandemic was no friend to passenger rail in general and our Downeaster was no exception. However, FY 2023 bounced back with 516,723 riders and in August of this year 'America's Favorite Trian' carried an all-time record of 61,769 riders!

We talked with Natalie Bogart, NNEPRA's Deputy Director, about the reasons for this impressive rebound. Natalie, before taking the reins of her new position, was Marketing Director. Therefore, if anyone should know, it's Natalie.

The Downeaster is no stranger to inflation as operating costs, according to NNEPRA, have risen by 20% in the last five years. A new fare plan has been proposed to address this increase. The Portland Press Herald detailed the anticipated ticket increases:

"Certain one-way coach Value fares would increase $2 to $6; the maximum premium paid for Business Class seating would increase from $10 to $12; and the cost of certain Multi-Ride Passes would increase as much as $10, including monthly, 10-ride and six-ticket college passes."

Five years ago the average price of a gallon of gas was $2.74, today it averages at least $3.50/gallon - that's more than a 25% increase. The Downeaster is still a bargain!

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