The Nonantum in Kennebunkport and the Downeaster to the Rescue!
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- Created: 03 August 2022 03 August 2022
On the way to the hotel she filled out an online form (on her phone) and left messages with every Amtrak number, she could find. I reassured her that this was Maine, that we all know each other and that we would figure it out.
Read more: The Nonantum in Kennebunkport and the Downeaster to the Rescue!
Downeaster Ridership Bounces Back!!!
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- Created: 01 July 2022 01 July 2022
It's an amazing comeback for 'America's Favorite Train!' June numbers are 94% of June 2019, which was before the pandemic. The national Amtrak system is averaging up to 70% of pre-pandemic levels.
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.