Passenger train service between Raleigh and Charlotte is back to its full schedule for the first time in more than a year.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation scaled back Amtrak service because of the coronavirus pandemic, but started offering more daily trips in recent months.
As of April 5, the service is back to its usual schedule with three trains between Raleigh and Charlotte each day with stops in Durham, Greensboro, Kannapolis and other cities along the route.
“With pandemic restrictions slowly easing, we’re seeing increased demand for safe travel options,” NCDOT’s Rail Division Director Jason Orthner said in a statement. “Passengers can travel with peace of mind as they get out and safely begin rediscovering all that North Carolina has to offer.”
To welcome back the full service, NCDOT is giving 50% off train trips in April.
The Piedmont service now leaves Raleigh for Charlotte at 6:30 a.m., 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. It leaves Charlotte-bound for the Triangle each day at 9:40 a.m., 1:10 p.m. and 6:10 p.m.
Passengers are still required to wear masks and practice social distancing in stations and while on board the trains.