I was around then. We sure as h#ll didn't have anyone upgrading at ATP mins. In fact, a lot of guys (not counting the street guys of course) had to wait a few years when the SF3 displacement bid came out.
Not as long as the XJ guys I know, but it wasn't really quick. One of my CFI buds upgraded really quick at XJT. He was flying the ATR out of EWR after reaching his ATP mins, so if you can and your company will let you, I say go for it.
Edit: And some of the best CA's I flew with at 9E (yes there are some), were FO's for 5+years.