To strengthen Maine’s economy through reliable shortline freight service, sustainable infrastructure investment, and long-term partnerships with shippers, communities, and the State.
Our plan utilizes existing rail infrastructure in place today, with a tiered investment strategy to upgrade the line from Portland to Auburn, owned by the Maine Department of Transportation.
By prioritizing the reactivation of this rail line for freight and incremental passenger use, while thoughtfully allowing multi-use trails along the right of way, Casco Bay Rail supports a progressive and balanced strategy.
This model aligns with regional economic goals, environmental stewardship, and community connectivity—positioning rail as a vital cornerstone for Maine’s future.
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As part of this effort, our plan to restart rail operations will come with a commitment to work toward a rail-with-trail solution, which aims to preserve the interests of groups advocating for a recreation trail alongside the right of way.
This initiative is particularly relevant as it aligns with the development of the Casco Bay Rail Trail, enhancing both recreational opportunities and freight transportation efficiency.
By integrating this rail infrastructure, we can maximize economic benefits within the 99' right of way while supporting the viability of shortline rail economic developement per the State of Maine Railroad Preservation Act
Please visit the links below for more details and functional examples of rail-with-trail solutions found throughout the county. This solution creates a maximized economic benefit that is possible within the 99' right of way.
https://www.railstotrails.org/trail-building-toolbox/rail-with-trail/
Portland, Maine, serves as the anchor for a robust tourist industry in the state, where Casco Bay Rail plans to offer a unique excursion rail experiences linked with cruise ships, providing economic benefit for communities along the rail corridor.
Reactivation of this rail asset preserves a future option for commuter rail services by benef
Portland, Maine, serves as the anchor for a robust tourist industry in the state, where Casco Bay Rail plans to offer a unique excursion rail experiences linked with cruise ships, providing economic benefit for communities along the rail corridor.
Reactivation of this rail asset preserves a future option for commuter rail services by beneficially and incrementally restarting rail operations today on a key corridor along I295, which if removed would otherwise make the public cost of replacement astronomical.
To become a vital link in Maine’s sustainable freight future—revitalizing underused infrastructure, supporting new industries, creating solutions for Maine communities and building the next generation of rail operations in New England.
