Overheard: Monthly pass/multi-ride may will require reservations
 

When I was in the Acela lounge at NYP this week the reps at the counter were discussing how very soon monthly passes and multirides will require reservations and they will need to be at least 14 days before day of travel. The reason given was that Amtrak needs to keep track of "how many bodies" are on each train (you can already see this calculated on the reservation page). Obviously I have no confirmation of this but considering the source, I feel like it must be true.

For me personally, this is a dealbreaker, as I usually get a multiride for the flexibility, when I need to decide that day when I will travel. OTOH, I can't see the next time I'll be traveling often enough to need one.

Oooh, that’s not good. Already debating the wisdom of returning to my commute in October given the reduced schedule. Can’t say this would help.

I can see Amtrak’s desire to monitor usage of monthlies while during this stage. But this makes the idea of a pass completely useless.

I don't know when this appeared but I see they now have this and it's called Ride Reserve.

https://www.amtrak.com/deals-discoun...e-reserve.html

RideReserve started a couple weeks ago. If you were a previous pass holder, you should have received some e-mails announcing the new program. Even the Amtrak app has been updated for you to make your ride reservations. A new button shows up on your multi-ride ticket. I am not aware of any 14-day advance requirement, though. That would defeat the purpose of a multi-ride pass.

I used to get a few passes a year but received no emails. Just saw it yesterday when I went to modify a trip (the regular O/W kind). Glad to hear there's no 14 day requirement.