Maine State Rail Plan & Mountain Division Trail Proposal
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- Created: 23 March 2022 23 March 2022
The MaineDOT hosted a live presentation on March 23, 2022, regarding the development of the Maine State Rail Plan. This meeting provided information about the proposed plan to help the public understand the statewide rail-planning process. Here is the video of the Zoom meeting.
A second session was held via Zoom on 3/31/2022. This focused on the Mountain Division and whether to maintain the line for future train use, remove the tracks for a public recreational trail or create that trail parallel to the tracks. MaineDOT provided a cost analysis of each option and they will provide a recommendation to the Legislature as to how to proceed. The Rail Preservation Act currently directs MaineDOT to manage state-owned rail lines for future rail use. Public input was extensive. Here is the video of the Zoom meeting.
Plaque Honoring Wayne Davis Unveiled in Brunswick
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- Created: 19 February 2022 19 February 2022
20 Years of Downeaster Service, Wayne Davis' Accomplishments Honored and Wells Improvement Project Started!
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- Created: 16 December 2021 16 December 2021
December 15, 2021 - There was an impressive gathering of passenger rail leaders and officials, past and present, at the Wells Train Station today to celebrate the 20 years of service of the Amtrak Downeaster.
Governor Janet Mills spoke of the train's accomplishments over those two decades along with recorded appearances of Senators Collins and King. NNEPRA board members and Executive Director Patricia Quinn enthusiastically emphasized the role of TRN Chairman Wayne Davis in bringing Amtrak to Maine, proving that one visionary and a small band of advocates can make a difference.
At the end of the meeting, the leaders crossed the tracks and with shovels in hand, broke ground on the $23,000,000 Wells Area Improvement Project. The Federal Railroad Administration, Maine DOT and Pan Am Railways contributed funds to this expansion. It is expected to take two years to complete.
Hannaford in Brunswick supported us as we provided anniversary cookies to the passengers along the line.
In addition, Governing Magazine published an excellent profile of Wayne Davis and how his vision and approach brought the Downeaster to Maine.
The Downeaster continues to grow!!!