The News Tribune
When it comes to welcoming visitors to our community, some local volunteers are all aboard.
United as the Capital City Amtrak Friends, these volunteers welcome and assist rail passengers arriving at and departing from the local train station.
And, they've been doing so for a decade.
When Amtrak eliminated staffing at the local station 10 years ago as a cost-cutting measure, the volunteers formed.
The celebration of the group's 10th anniversary Friday is a testament to the dedication of the 25 active volunteers. And, improving station amenities and the experience for rail passengers is a tribute to their productivity.
The waiting area has been enlarged and remodeled, providing shelter where waiting passengers can relax and enjoy refreshments. In addition, the volunteers provide updated information on schedules and delays.
The volunteers - who staff the station during the four local stops each day - also have witnessed some Amtrak service improvements. Perhaps most notable among them is a higher rate of on-time arrivals and departures.
"We started with 45 volunteers, but we lost many because at that time the trains could run several hours late, meaning you'd have to stay for quite some time before the train came in," said Judy Towson, president of the group. "Now, it's like night and day. We've got more room and thanks to track improvements, our trains run on time most of the time."
The improved services are reflected in increased ridership.
The group estimates the number of passengers served has increased from 12,000 in 2003 to 51,000 in 2012. During the decade of service, volunteers have assisted nearly 448,000 visitors.
Those are impressive numbers -befitting an outstanding level of volunteer service spanning a decade.
In weather fair and foul, the Amtrak friends are steadfast in providing an inviting shelter and a warm welcome.