The Amtrak-Starlight/Tehachapi discussion mentioned that relations may have improved between Amtrak and UP. Possibly confirming that, the wife had a trip to Reno last week (business!) and took the Zephyr east (bus west due to schedule). Not only was it on time at Sac (whoa!) but it was EARLY into Reno! Yes, I know Sac is only 90 miles from the start, but Amtrak's CZ has traditionally been up to an hour late even there, and making up time over Donner is usually impossible. Are things working better for the WB too? Has UP turned over a new leaf? Maybe we will have to knock off with the UP-bashing and start looking for something else to complain about (ummm ... CORP/NWP are always good for that).

BTW, the Amtrak bus was way early coming back. That's what happens when it's summertime but the heavy work on 80 hasn't gotten started yet.