Rockland is about to see trains return. Meanwhile, Augusta may remove its rails forever.

People mention how freight trains stopped on the Lower Road in 1986. They do not mention the limited freight service to Augusta in the 1990s. They do not mention a chartered excursion train to Augusta in 2007. People think the tracks are in awful shape, though the Rail Use Advisory Council states otherwise. Maine Switching Services (MSS) states that there are sections that could see a train right now, and they have a request for proposal with MaineDOT to make this happen.

The Merrymeeting Trail people claim that their trail would be “interim.” What rail company is going to bulldoze a trail and build a new rail line from scratch? They know their trail will never be removed, and they would remove our chances to finally bring back rail to our capital forever.

How are they so sure rail is not viable when the state has never put out an RFP? Freight trains, big or small, are more trucks off our roads. Excursion trains bring in tourists who spend money at other local businesses. Ever taken a trip to Conway, Unity, Alna or any town with rail excursions? Rail is a win for all, cleaning our streets and keeping the opportunity for dedicated passenger service open.

A trail does not accomplish this. We keep the flaws of today and lock out our future for no gain. We must give MSS a chance to bring back rail, and we must reject the Merrymeeting Trail.

Steven Turner
Belgrade