Maine Governor Ceremonially Signs Bill on Passenger Rail Funding

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May 21, 2008 -- AUGUSTA – Maine Governor John E. Baldacci today ceremonially signed LD 2019, “An Act To Implement the Recommendations of the Governor’s Task Force on Passenger Rail Funding.” The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Boyd Marley (D-Portland), was at the ceremony, as were cosponsors and supporters of the legislation.

Train tracks, Maine: Photo by Sue (CC)

“Long before near-$4 a gallon gas prices, I joined with rail advocates to support extending our rail system for both passenger and freight in Maine,” Governor Baldacci said. “Rail is an increasingly viable option – in economic and environmental terms.”

The Governor created the Task Force on Passenger Rail Funding in 2005. The legislation puts some of the recommendations of the Task Force into action. This legislation specifically provides funding for rehabilitation of the Portland to Brunswick rail line.

“The capital expansion will enable the Downeaster – which has been extremely successful in the Northeast corridor – to extend service to Brunswick and hopefully further west and north in the future,” the Governor said. “This is an important step toward the goal of expanding rail in Maine.”

Source: Maine Governor