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TrainRiders/NE Set the Standard for States Seeking New Amtrak Service
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- Created: 14 June 2022 14 June 2022
It's no secret that our pride in the Downeaster's accomplishments knows no bounds. But returning Amtrak service to the deteriorating railbed between Maine and Boston was not an easy process. As Governing.com states, "transportation planners thought trains would never be back, but Wayne Davis spent the last 30 years proving them wrong."
Passenger train service to Maine had ceased in 1965. It took a grassroots effort by Trainriders/NE to engage the citizens of Maine, their legislators in Augusta and ultimately the state's Washington delegation to make the 'impossible'... possible.
For those states wanting to initiate Amtrak service, the TrainRiders/NE model gives valuable guidance. The successful service, professionally managed by the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority, is considered by many to be 'America's Favorite Train!'
A thorough article on our successful process can be found in Governing.com. You'll need to click on "Continue to Site" once you arrive at their website.
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.
Ed Bonney, TrainRiders/NE Board Member, Freeport Train Station Manager and Civic Leader, Passes Away
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- Created: 24 October 2021 24 October 2021
Ed Bonney, a leader in Freeport’s business and passenger rail communities, passed away recently at the age of 88 after a short illness. He served for many years on the TrainRiders Board of Directors, working tirelessly to integrate the town’s business community with the Downeaster service between Brunswick and Boston.