Urge Connecticut to study Maybrook & Housatonic Line reactivation

In recent years, there has been a growing interest across the United States in the restoration of passenger rail services on dormant rail lines. States like Maryland, New York, and Montana  have already embarked on this journey, recognizing the immense potential for economic growth, improved transportation systems, and environmental benefits. Connecticut stands at the cusp of similar transformational change.

We call upon the Connecticut Department of Transportation to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to explore the reactivation of passenger rail service on the Maybrook and Housatonic (aka Berkshire) rail lines. This study should aim to determine the most economically beneficial and least costly options for reactivating these lines, with findings made available to Connecticut legislators by January 2027.

The reactivation of these rail lines offers a visionary solution to our state's pressing challenges. Connecticut, like much of the nation, faces critical issues such as a severe housing shortage and escalating automobile congestion. By tapping into existing infrastructure, we can encourage transit-oriented development, diversify housing supply, and expand sustainable and green transportation options.

The Maybrook Line is of particular interest as it integrates the Waterbury, Danbury, and Harlem Metro-North lines, offering a new east-west transportation corridor that could connect Connecticut with New York. Meanwhile, the revival of the Housatonic Line presents an opportunity to reconnect communities along the Massachusetts border, revitalizing a historic route between Pittsfield, MA, and Danbury, CT.

The infrastructure for this change already exists, with tracks in place and several former stations still standing. The potential benefits include enhancing accessibility, stimulating local economies, and significantly reducing traffic and emissions.

We urge the Connecticut Department of Transportation to undertake this feasibility study with an eye towards determining which project would yield the greatest benefits while being the most feasible to implement.