Nearly $13 Million Requested by Senator Collins for Maine Northern Rail Included in Transportation Funding Bill

Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senator Susan Collins, the Ranking Member of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, announced today that $12,960,000 she requested for Maine Northern rail improvements was included in the draft Fiscal Year 2022 Transportation Appropriations bill that has been released by the Senate Appropriations Committee.  The legislation must still be voted upon by the full Senate and House.

“This investment would support important infrastructure improvements to increase the safety, efficiency, and reliability of freight rail between Aroostook and Penobscot counties,” said Senator Collins.  “Through my travels around the state, I’ve seen firsthand the positive effects of investing in our railroads to help manufacturers and farmers ship their products to market and support jobs in rural parts of our state.  I will continue to champion this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

If enacted into law, the Maine Department of Transportation will use this funding to upgrade the Presque Isle and Houlton Lines and the mainline from Millinocket to Scopan Township, allowing for 25 mile per hour speeds.  Increases in both speed and capacity will improve freight rail service and serve more commercial entities in Northern Maine.

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