The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority says an additional Downeaster train will be added between Brunswick and Wells each morning to serve commuters travelling to and from the Greater Portland Region. The $31.9 million project, which began in March of 2025, has already made strong headway. 

“We are delighted to work with Great Falls on this important project that will provide more options for Maine residents to get back and forth to work without adding to traffic congestion,” said Patricia Quinn, NNEPRA Executive Director. 

Funding for the project is primarily from a 2019 grant which the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority received from the Federal Railroad Administration. The remaining 27% of funding came from the Maine Department of Transportation and the CSX Corporation. 

The primary focus of construction has been on the Wells, Maine station. Already completed is a 6-mile addition to the railroad and the construction of a temporary platform, while other project goals are in progress. Passengers can expect changes to parking, platforms, and other detours while construction takes place, according to Amtrak. Once renovations are completed, the Wells station will include a pedestrian bridge and two platforms.

Although an opening date for the train operating between Brunswick and Wells is yet to be announced, construction for the project is estimated to be completed in the Fall of 2026.