Patricia Quinn of NNEPRA Calls 2023 "Phenomenal!"

We're used to good news when it comes to the Amtrak Downeaster. Still, the ridership numbers for 2023 set new records causing Patricia Quinn, NNEPRA's Executive Director, to label the past twelve months as "Phenominal!"

AP File Photo
In an interview with Maine PBS, Ms. Quinn celebrated the ridership numbers and the $27 million federal grant to improve the trackage between Brunswick to Boston. CSX owns the right of way and will partner with NNEPRA to implement the grant.

Ms. Quinn also listed the agency's goals in 2024.

• Pursuing additional grants to plan a new Portland Station.
• Implementation of 'Positive Train Control' which will allow increased frequency of train service.
• Examine increasing service from 5 to 8 roundtrips per day eventually.
• Continue work on the double tracking at Wells and the addition of a northbound platform.
• A pilot project of service between Brunswick and Rockland this summer.

The full interview can be viewed at Maine PBS.