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!!!

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