BNSF and Amtrak Coast Starlight/Pacific Parlor, Tacoma, Washington
Hail and farewell for Parlour Cars. Amtrak recently announced that the remaining ex-Santa Fe “Hi-Level” Parlour Cars would be withdrawn from service on the Coast Starlight. On September 1, 2008, Train 11 (with P42s 186/99) was an on time departure out of Tacoma Union Station, with 39970 ”Columbia Valley” mid consist. The passing BNSF Railway 983 (C44-9W) adds the ironic touch of modern Santa Fe passing original Santa Fe. Amtrak operatred this premium service from 1995-2018.