News

Downeaster Pilot Program to Rockland is a No-Go This Summer

Downeaster Pilot Program to Rockland is a No-Go This Summer

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


ROCKLAND, Maine (AP) Amtrak’s Downeaster won’t be running this summer to Rockland, Maine.

Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority Patricia Quinn said Wednesday that Amtrak was unable to put all of the pieces together, including crew qualifying and a risk assessment of 58 miles of track between Brunswick and Rockland.

That means there won’t be a pilot program on three weekends this summer.

But Quinn said she isn’t giving up on the idea. The goal is to complete the qualifying and assessments this year and launch the pilot program next summer.

The passenger rail service started between Boston and Portland, Maine, in December 2001. Service expanded northward to Freeport and Brunswick in November 2012.

Latest Headlines

11 hours ago in Local

Maine’s Food Pantries Struggle with Volunteer Shortage

Maine has long been one of the most food insecure states in New England.

11 hours ago in Local

Motorcyclist Dead in Whitefield Crash

The Vigue Road was closed till approximately 1:30 PM.

12 hours ago in Local

Navy Ship Christened at Bath Iron Works

Several other military destroyers are currently under construction at Bath Iron Works.

2 days ago in Local

Mt. Desert Island officials raise alarm over potential impact of government shutdown on local economy

If Congress can't come to an agreement over the budget by the end of Tuesday, at least a partial shutdown will occur that'll limit operations by federal agencies like the National Park Service, potentially shutting down Acadia National Park.

3 days ago in Local

Pair of men involved in Saco drive-by shooting plead guilty

Two Massachusetts men are pleading guilty to several charges in a drive-by shooting in Saco last year