Executive Director Patricia Quinn presented the latest Downeaster Performance Report summarizing the first two quarters of FY2019.

 

Ridership: Each of the six months showed uneven variations, but the bottom line on actual ridership revealed a small decrease from the targeted goal (-1% or 280,726 vs. 284,036). Ms. Quinn reported that ridership in January would likely exceed the targeted goal.

Revenue: The numbers exceeded slightly the projected farebox ($5,273,148 vs. $5,265,446).

 

On Time Performance: The replacement of some 15,000 ties in the fall is now delivering a stronger On Time Performance number. In December of 2017, OTP was a disappointing 67%. This past December saw 81%!. Ms. Quinn projected that January's OTP would approach 85%. As a northern New England passenger rail service, cold weather is constantly asserting its impact on OTP, train delays and cancellations. 

 

Customer Satisfaction: The Downeaster's Overall Satisfaction was 92% for December. Amtrak, which has changed their method of computing Customer Satisfaction, scored 91%.

Public Comment: The public raised questions about the proposed Rockland extension, the Lewiston-Auburn study, the Wells Station improvement project and other goals. It was noted that the new administration in Augusta will require some time to "get their feet on the ground" and NNEPRA remains committed to continued improvement and expansion of Downeaster service.

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