Amtrak Downeaster survey seeks feedback on service

The Amtrak Downeaster survey invites passengers and the broader public to share feedback. It uses an online questionnaire and two open houses. It gives the rail authority input on travel patterns, customer satisfaction and possible improvements. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Who the authority wants to hear from?

The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority oversees the Downeaster service. It said it wants input from frequent riders and occasional travelers. Also, it wants input from people who have never taken the train.

Natalie Bogart, the authority’s marketing director, said the agency wants to hear from everyone.
“The feedback we receive is invaluable as we plan for the future of the Downeaster.”
“We want to hear from everyone – whether you’re a frequent commuter, an occasional traveler or someone who has never ridden the train but has thoughts on how we can improve.”

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What the Downeaster survey covers?

The survey asks how often participants travel and why they choose the Downeaster. It also asks how satisfied they are with cleanliness, punctuality and onboard amenities.

Also, it asks about future improvements. These include additional trips, better station facilities and new destinations.

The Downeaster operates five daily round trips between Brunswick and Boston. Trains stop in Freeport, Portland, Old Orchard Beach, Saco and Wells in Maine. They also stop in Dover, Durham and Exeter in New Hampshire. They stop in Haverhill and Woburn in Massachusetts.

Meanwhile, ridership has risen steadily over the past year. The increase comes as more travelers return to rail service after the pandemic.

The survey will remain available on the Amtrak Downeaster website through the end of May. In addition, there is a ticket drawing. The prize is a pair of round-trip Downeaster tickets. People enter by completing the survey.

Separately, more information is available on the Service Development Plan page. The survey is available there as well.

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