Here's my experience,
Applied: 3/15
In Process: 3/19
Called DOS on 4/8 noon time, on hold for ~ 50 min, then requested & paid to expedite. My CC was charged in the afternoon & status changed to expedited processing. Then next day, Passport status showed as "Shipped" with USPS Priority mail tracking#. I received my new PP today (4/12) along with NC in separate manila folder so looks like, expediting service was worth it.