Project Overview

The Wells Area Improvement Project is substantially complete. The Project has two major elements:

DOUBLE TRACK/ SIDING EXTENSION: CSX Transportation contractor RJ Corman completed the first Project element, the 6-mile extension of the 2-mile passing track in Wells, in December 2024. The additional track capacity will improve train reliability and increase schedule flexibility for both passenger and freight trains.
PLATFORM CONSTRUCTION: The second Project element, construction of a new platform at Wells Transportation Center, began March 3, 2025. The original high-level boarding platform adjacent to the Wells station building has been rebuilt and a second platform has been constructed across the tracks. An overhead pedestrian bridge has been constructed to connect the two platforms, allowing Downeaster trains operating in opposing directions to board and alight Wells passengers at the same time. See Project photos below. Great Falls Construction, based in Gorham, Maine, is the general contractor.

Downeaster service has continued throughout the Project. During construction, passengers have experienced changes to station access and circulation, including modified vehicle routes and temporary boarding arrangements to accommodate construction staging areas and access roads. As the Project nears completion, passengers should continue to follow posted signs and station guidance while any remaining construction activities are completed.

The expanded facility is substantially complete, with final construction activities underway. The Project improvements will support additional Downeaster service between Brunswick and Wells, with the goal of providing commuters with a convenient, car-free travel option to and within the greater Portland region during peak commuting hours.

Project Milestones

Date	Milestone
October 2026	Ribbon cutting ceremony held
August 2026	Exterior siding installation complete
May 2026	Pedestrian bridge deck concrete placed
April 2026	Building waterproofing complete
February 2026	Cross-laminated timber (CLT) wall and roof panel installation complete
November 2025	Precast platform, elevator towers, and pedestrian bridge installation complete
September 2025	Concrete walls and foundation have been placed
July 2025	Construction of the temporary high platform complete
June 2025	Pile driving for new platform on south side of tracks complete
March 2025	Construction of the new platform and pedestrian bridge begins
February 2025	Contract for construction of the new platform and pedestrian bridge awarded to Great Falls Construction of Gorham, Maine
December 2024	CSX contractor, RJ Corman completes the 6-mile extension of the siding track

Project Budget

The total project budget is $31,095,403.

Seventy-three percent of the total is being paid for through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement Grant awarded to NNEPRA by the Federal Railroad Administration in 2019 matched by a 20 percent contribution from the Maine Department of Transportation and six and a half percent contribution from CSX .