A project is underway to replace and expand boarding platforms at the Wells Transportation Center.

The upgrade will allow Amtrak Downeaster trains arriving at the station from opposing directions to board passengers simultaneously.

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 project includes the replacement of the existing high level boarding platform adjacent to the Wells Station building as well as the construction of a second boarding platform across the tracks connected by an overhead pedestrian bridge.

The Rail Authority says the$11.8 million project will support approximately 80 jobs and involve approximately 40 suppliers throughout its 18-month duration.

The platform expansion is part of the $31.9 million Wells Area Improvement Project (WAIP). It’s funded in by the Federal Railroad Administration through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) discretionary grant program, with matching funds provided by the Maine Department of Transportation and CSX Transportation. The WAIP project also included a six-mile extension to the second track located in front of the station, which was completed by CSX in 2024.

A start date for the expanded service has not been determined. The project was started earlier this week.