Last month, the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA) and the public got word that NNEPRA would receive $48 million in federal funding for the design and construction of a new Amtrak Downeaster passenger rail station on St. John Street in Portland. This was fantastic news, and credit goes to many stakeholders, including to Maine’s congressional delegation.

Understandably, there have been questions about moving the station, but there’s an incredible amount of optimism for a project that can re-energize part of the city, improve connections in the region and save time and money.

Read the Full Story: Written by Chairman Cohen and Vice Chairman Cassavant | Published by the Portland Press Herald

– Chairman Jim Cohen

– Vice Chairman Alan Cassavant

NNEPRA recently hosted public open houses in Freeport, Saco, and Portland to share information about the Service Development Plan and gather input on the future of Downeaster service.

Attendees explored interactive boards, viewed a presentation, and spoke with the project team about potential service improvements.

A clear message emerged from the public feedback: people want more trains and faster trains. Attendees expressed strong interest in increased service frequency and shorter travel times. There was also strong support for relocating the Portland station to better serve passengers and support future growth in passenger rail service.

Public input from the open houses will help inform the Service Development Plan as NNEPRA continues to evaluate opportunities to improve and expand Downeaster service.

NNEPRA thanks everyone who participated and shared their feedback.