An agreement has been struck that will allow work on the $35 million project to begin as early as this week, says Maine 1st District Congresswoman Chellie Pingree.

An agreement has been struck between Maine and federal officials that will allow work to begin almost immediately on extending Amtrak Downeaster train service to Brunswick. That's according to Maine 1st District Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, who says the $35 million extension project will create jobs in Maine this summer.

I'm very happy that this project is moving forward," Pingree says in a statement. "It means putting jobs on the ground quickly in the short term and economic sustainability for the region over the long haul."

The project, which could get underway as soon as this week, will extend Amtrak Downeaster rail service from Portland to Brunswick, with a stop in Freeport. It includes rehabbing more than 26 miles of existing rail line, constructing two disabled-accessible passenger platforms, and improving 36 highway crossings, Pingree says.

The project is being funded by a Recovery Act grant.








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