Notes from our blog

Getting there from here

Amtrak will suspend its most direct Boston-New York service for four days starting tomorrow as it replaces the movable span of the 90-year-old Thames River Bridge, between Groton and New London, Conn., and performs a track maintenance "blitz." The work will also bring disruptions in commuter rail service between Boston and Providence, according to the MBTA. Amtrak will add a couple more regional round trips that will get you from Boston to New York, but you will be routed through Springfield and Hartford - a five- to six-hour trip.

Succumbing to fee frenzy

United and US Airways have decided to join rival American and start charging many customers $15 to check even one bag. United also plans to increase fees to check three or more bags, overweight luggage, or items that need special handling. And US Airways will start charging domestic coach customers for nonalcoholic drinks. The $25 fee charged by both for a second checked bag will not change.

PAUL MAKISHIMA