Welcome to Maine Rail Group
A non-profit group working to enhance rail service in Maine and New England.
August 2026 Tracking the News …Transportation affects us all
8/13 Portland Station relocation to St. John's St receives $48 million grant
In what can only be described as a regional benefit for all of Maine, the federal government awarded a $48 million grant to NNEPRA for constructing a new station on the mainline in Portland. From reducing 17 minutes travel time for stations north of Portland, to saving over $1 million dollars in operating costs, it is a win for Maine. See information below.
8/14/26 MBTA Lands $139.6MM for Commuter Rail Double Track Projec
In another win for the Downeaster, the Haverhill Station in Massachusetts will be double tracked, speeding up service, and offering a new station.
https://www.rtands.com/track-construction/mbta-lands-139-6mm-for-commuter-rail-double-track/
7/21/26 Multiyear surface transportation legislation in doubt
The legislation that funds highways and mass transit appears stalled in the Senate after the House passed a bipartisan five-year bill. Read the details at: https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/congress-surface-transportation-legislation-outlook/825745/
6/5/26 Great video: Dude, Where Are My Trains?
Portland Station Relocation Updates
Latest news on the progress of the new station needed for Portland
Official NNEPRA report: https://www.nnepra.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024-12-5-NNEPRA-PTS-Relocation-Site-Alternatives-Analysis-Summary-Report.FINAL_.pdf
Reflections from the Urbanist Coalition: https://www.urbanistportland.me/blog
Letters to the editor – Portland Press Herald 11/22/25 page A-4