Need info on train 417 Saratoga-New York

I was wondering if anyone could help me find background on the trains that run between Saratoga and the Bronx over the CSX and Metro-North Hudson Lines.

- What at the train numbers? They have changed a few times over the years.

- When did the service start? Why did it start?

Any information would be appreciated. Thanks!

-otto-

Best bet for info is to go to the Yahoo groups "Hudson River Rails" board. There are near-daily postings on this train's operations.

The idea was to establish some kind of competition into the NYC freight market following the dismemberment of Conrail. CP got rights in at that time, but traffic growth has been slow.

Best bet for seeing him in daylight is to go south on the Hudson Line and wait til the PM rush is over. He comes out shortly afterwards.

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Check out the New York and Atlantic Railway's forum for info on operations into NYC.

I know when the CP/D&H train runs... I usually photograph it three times a week down in the area around Scarborough.... I was just looking for some historical background.

Here are some photos of the CP train along MN's Hudson Line:

http://www.railroad.net/photos/nycarea/index.php

-otto-