About Casco Bay Rail
Value Statement
Casco Bay Rail envisions revitalizing the region’s rail infrastructure to support both freight and passenger services, while supporting a Rail with Trail design. Building on recent progress, our goal is to strengthen supply chains and create economic opportunity with dual use private and public rail applications. Our plan utilizes the existing infrastructure today, with a tiered investment plan to upgrade the line from Portland to Auburn owned by the Maine Department of Transportation
By prioritizing reactivation of this rail line for freight and incremental passenger use, while thoughtfully converting less‑used corridors into multi‑use trails (or combining them via rail‑with‑trail design), Casco Bay Rail supports a progressive, 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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Rail with Trail Commitment
As part of this effort, our plan to restart rail operations will come with a commitment to work toward a rail-with-trail solution, as a collaborative effort to preserve the interests and efforts of groups to build a recreation trail alongside the right of way.
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/