The Downeaster has had more than a decade of uninterrupted, successful growth. However, these past few months have reminded NNEPRA that setbacks come with heavy-handed results. Let's get the 'ugly' out of the way first.

The Ugly

The recent spate of slow orders, the PanAm right-of-way rehabilitation of a road-bed that was pummeled by the harsh winter AND the ongoing construction of the Haverhill bridge finally showed up in the numbers this month. April's On Time Performance registered 35.6% with no train making it into the 80% category. May's OTP was 8%!

The Federal Railroad Agency, which has jurisdiction over U.S. railroad activities, issued its long-awaited review of the Brunswick Layover Facility's Environmental Assessment provided to the agency by NNEPRA. The FRA issued a FONSI (A Finding of No Significant Impact) which clears the way for construction to begin on the BLF. It will house three train sets just 0.6 miles from the Brunswick Station.

Our May newsletter was recently sent to our membership.

It features the latest Downeaster FY 2014 data, a tribute to Benjamin Kirkland (one of TRN's original and deeply dedicated supporters), a column on the delaying tactics of the West Brunswick Neighborhood Coalition over the proposed Downeaster Layover Facility, and recommendations from Chairman Wayne Davis how best to improve and grow the Downeaster service. Go here for these stories and more. 

In addition to the newsletter, the TrainRiders/NE Board sent a special request letter to all of our many supporters. We share this with you hoping it will encourage your further support.