While it is well known that up to 11 trains on average can pass through La Grange KY
on a daily basis, this equates to an average of 1 train through in either direction
every 2 hours and 11 minutes. However, as CSX does not run its trains to a set
timetable, the frequency of these trains can vary anywhere from as little as 20
minutes between trains to as large as 11 hours. In the right circumstances a number
of trains passing in quick succession regardless of direction of travel triggers
circumstances referred to on the chat as “Peak Hour”.
The requirement for Peak Hour to be called are as follows:
-
A minimum of 3 trains must pass through La Grange within a 2 hour window, starting
from the time of the first train.
The start time the train is seen is the trigger, then until the next trains starts.
ie the time the rear of the train is not a factor.
-
A train’s direction of travel does not impact the count (E.G. 2 SBs and 1 NB within
the 2 hour window will qualify for Peak Hour. See below for examples).
-
The flow of trains must be naturally occurring and not caused as a result of a
disruption (E.G. Train Fault). If a disruption is detected and confirmed, Peak Hour
status is not permitted.
-
Peak Hour Status expires 1 hour after the passing time of the 3rd train within
the 2 hour window.
-
Should a 4th, or more trains pass through within the one hour window after then
3rd train, Peak Hour is extended by 1 additional hour from the passing time of the
additional train (See example 4 below).
-
Local shunts eg L404, or trains passing through on multiple occasions within the same day
with the same train number (including day origination number) only count as 1 train
and do not count as additional trains. See example 5 below - Although M205 is listed twice within the timeframe, the different day origination numbers means both trains are separate trains and not running as divided consists.
-
MOW
A train is used for Rail or Ballast or to carry the mow on flatcars - they count.
BUT
a Hirail or mow equipment on the rails are not a countable train.
Below are examples on how “Peak Hour” can be identified and confirmed.
Example 1
M217-23 14:25:31 SB
M209-22 15:22:59 SB
I141-23 16:05:07 SB
Peak Hour !
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Example 2
M207-13 08:20:26 SB
M576-16 09:30:51 NB
X573-15 09:43:15 SB
Peak Hour !
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Example 3
M575-07 23:40:44 SB
M277-06 00:05:34 SB
I142-06 01:20:23 NB
Peak Hour !
|
Example 4
M216-14 18:45:44 NB
M205-11 19:00:10 SB
M209-13 19:25:56 SB
M217-12 20:10:04 SB
Peak Hour !
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Example 5
M352-19 02:34:26 NB
M205-15 02:53:58 SB
M573-18 04:03:02 SB
M205-16 04:51:34 SB
Peak Hour !
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Example 6
M204-19 02:34:26 NB
W088-15 02:53:58 SB
M573-17 04:03:02 SB
M269-16 05:05:34 SB
Not Peak Hour !
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Example 7
L404-14 18:45:44 NB
M209-13 19:25:56 SB
L404-14 20:10:04 SB
Not Peak Hour !
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Example 8
M205-11 18:45:10 SB
M205-11 19:00:10 NB
M205-11 19:25:56 SB
M217-12 19:40:04 SB
Not Peak Hour !
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Example 9
W021-17 18:45:10 SB
MOW 19:00:10 NB Hirail
M217-12 19:40:04 SB
Not Peak Hour !
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Notes:
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Originally, Peak Hour was set at 1 full hour and not 2 hours. Following the
introduction of Prescision Scheduling and Railroading by CSX, as well as the
increased use of Distributed Power Units (DPUs), the rule was changed as the
number of Peak Hour sightings plummeted to zero for an extended period of time.
-
I thank @dthead for allowing me to put this compliation of information together
to share with others who follow the Virtual Railfan cameras at La Grange and hope
it brings the same enjoyment that I get seeing a train roll through.
Fraser Trembath 2024
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Fraser's PEAK HOUR at Lagrange