New Haven-Hartford-Springfield Line Finally Gaining Steam

Coverage in today's Hartford Courant: http://www.courant.com/news/connecticut/hc-rail-commuters-0706.artjul06,0,6598733.story

Establishing a full-scale commuter train system paralleling I-91 has shot to the top of the Department of Transportation's "to do" list this year, prompted by the hope of landing federal stimulus grants to modernize the existing rail line linking New Haven, Hartford and Springfield."It's the most important initiative we have," Transportation Commissioner Joseph Marie said. "We're going to bring it to the finish line."

If funding comes through and design work moves quickly, it's possible to start regular service by late 2014, Marie said. He insists that waiting until then is better than hurrying now to start with just a few extra trains a day, minimal track upgrades and no station improvements."Let's do it right, and do it right from the beginning," he said. "

For background, see this post on Design New Haven.