Amtrak's "Train Jam" Stops for a Crew Change in Ottumwa, IA 3/15/18

Amtrak's westbound California Zephyr originating out of Chicago on March 15th, 2018 ran in an unusual way, thanks to being completely sold out by a special charter. Known as "Train Jam", the train carried video game creators west for the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco on March 19-23. During the 52+ hours onboard, the developers could work on games en route. Since the whole train was sold out well in advance, on its entire Chicago-Emeryville route, the Zephyr operated on an express basis, only stopping at select stations for crew changes and smoke breaks. Ottumwa was just the second stop the train made since Chicago, and was required since both engineers and conductors change out here. My video begins on the east end of the Ottumwa platform as the train pulls in. Then I had enough time to walk the length of the train to the front for its departure. Since no passengers boarded or got off here, the train left fifteen minutes earlier than the Zephyr's normal 6:53 departure time.

There were a few differences in the train consist as well, with three sleeping cars instead of the normal two (plus the transition crew dorm), and an additional Sightseer Lounge car on the end. This car was filled with people when the train stopped in Ottumwa. I bet they're having a lot of fun onboard!

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