TRANSPORTATION: Two Hours Faster

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In 1908 the speed of New York Central's 20th Century Limited on the New York-Chicago run (960 mi.) was stepped up to an 18-hr. schedule to match that of Pennsylvania's Pennsylvania Special (later the Broadway Limited). A series of wrecks followed, causing public outcry against such risky operation. In 1912 both companies agreed to ease their limiteds' schedule off to 20 hr. where it has remained ever since. Last week both roads were considering plans to restore the 18-hr. speed for their two best trains late next month. Their officers believed that the last 20 years had produced such a large improvement in rail safety devices that the faster schedule could now be maintained without the old hazard. The New York Central main line is now equipped with automatic train control from end to end whereas the Pennsylvania employs a safety system of illuminated engine-cab signals.*

Other contemplated changes in the New York-Chicago schedules of the two lines: 1) an increase in the running time of other 20-hr, limiteds to 21 hr.; 2) an acceleration of slower trains to a 21-hr. run; 3) elimination of all extra fares except on the 18-hr, trains.