In a rather unusual route announcement, Amtrak is launching a temporary route. The Floridian service will offer a long distance sleeper service between Chicago and Miami with intermediate stops in Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Jacksonville and Tampa. The temporary service combines the routes of the Capitol Limited and Silver Star trains. The inaugural trip will commence November 10, 2024.
A Temporary Route To Minimize Disruptions
Amtrak’s Floridian service will only be temporary in order to offset the disruptions caussed by the East River tunnel rehabilitation project in New York. The project will involve the closure of a tunnel to repair damage caused by hurricane Sandy. During the closure, Amtrak is converting the Silver Star service to the Floridian in order to reduce service disruptions caused by the tunnel closure. Passengers riding the Floridian will be able to choose from Coach Class, Roomettes and Bedrooms. Passengers booked in rooms will be able to access Amtrak’s Metropolitan Lounge at select stations. “The Floridian offers customers an exceptional and sustainable journey to great destinations between Chicago and Miami, providing the amenities and delicious food our guests enjoy when traveling with us,” Amtrak Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Eliot Hamlisch said. It is worth noting that the Silver Meteor will continue to operate daily between New York and Miami with minimal disruptions from the tunnel closure. Tickets for the Floridian are available for booking by visiting amtrak.com.