
A commuter rail line between Portland and Lewiston would see between 700 and 1,900 riders daily, a 2013 study found. This helps maintain Maine’s natural beauty by cutting carbon emissions. It also allows hard-working Mainers to become less reliant on gas-powered vehicles when they travel for work, family events and leisure.
Connecting Maine communities helps local businesses too. The rail will introduce new Mainers and tourists alike to great local businesses across the state by giving them a novel, low-cost and safe mode of transportation.
The refurbishment of these existing railways creates economic opportunities for Maine workers. Hundreds of good-paying jobs will be available through this project, which will run over the course of several years.