Connecticut Local Politics

Some more good news about commuter rail. Today Rep. Murphy’s office sent out this release:

Today, Congressman Chris Murphy (CT-5) announced passage of his amendment to Amtrak legislation that aims to facilitate the creation of expanded commuter rail in central Connecticut with service to Meriden.

“At a time when gas prices are squeezing the budget of Connecticut’s families like never before, we need to invest in the kind of commuter rail service that the New Haven – Springfield line represents. This is an investment that Connecticut has waited far too long for already, and it is one we cannot afford to delay any longer,” said Murphy, who [...announced] the passage of his amendment at the Meriden train station.

Murphy’s amendment expressed Congressional support for increased commuter rail service along the vital Northeastern transportation corridor, and directed Amtrak to report to ConnDOT on the uncompleted infrastructure maintenance on the line. ConnDOT worked with Murphy’s office to draft the amendment, as they were encountering difficulties in obtaining track maintenance information from Amtrak.

I’m very pleased that this is moving forward, especially as gas prices continue to climb. I wrote about commuter rail back in March and mentioned, aghast, that gas prices at the corner station were $3.25/gallon for regular unleaded. Today? $4.25.

I say let’s get this built, and good for Rep. Murphy (whose district contains only one town, Meriden, that will be on the line) for pushing this forward. What do you think?