The city of Portland is looking at plans to relocate the Amtrak station at one of three possible locations on St. John Street.

Mayor Mark Dion says the goal is to bring the station closer to foot traffic in the city.

“We want to build a site that’s going to be very accessible for pedestrians and bicyclists and try to reduce the presence of cars in the neighborhood but still use that as an anchor point for additional housing or retail,” said Dion.

The City Council is hearing a presentation Wednesday night from a dozen transportation experts on where to locate a new Amtrak station.

Dion says one goal is to reduce car usage by people coming to Portland and within the city itself.

“We know they don’t have it when they get here,” Dion said. “So, I think it’s going to be a boost for public transportation. Metro (transit) is very much in favor of trying to see that developed. The Council and I have said that enhancing rail access to Portland is important for our future growth and development.”

The city is looking at three locations on St. John Street to build the new Amtrak station at a cost of roughly $50 million.

The Amtrak Downeaster runs five train daily between Portland and the Boston North Amtrak station.