(Stamford, CT� -� June 22, 2002):�������� The new timetables, effective June 24th, for both Metro-North and Shore Line East show much needed additional train service for Connecticut commuters.
Shore Line East adds a second thru-train in AM and PM peak, extending service from New Haven to Bridgeport and Stamford.� There�s also a seasonal Friday afternoon �getaway� train departing New Haven at 2:10 pm and arriving in Old Saybrook at 2:55.
Metro-North is also adding new trains, especially over the July 4th weekend, so riders are well advised to pick up a timetable to plan their holiday travels.
However, a threatened shutdown of Amtrak effective July 1st could have a severe impact on Connecticut commuters, especially those using Shore Line East which is operated by Amtrak under contract from Connecticut Dept. of Transportation.
�The CT Rail Commuter Council is very concerned about Amtrak�s financial plight, both for its effect on thousands of daily riders in Connecticut and for the effect its shutdown may have on commuter rail operations,� says Jim Cameron, Vice Chmn. of the rider advocacy group.
�We�re suggesting that commuters and Amtrak riders keep an ear out for any developments in the coming days� and that they contact their elected officials and urge their intervention to prevent a shutdown of service.� Amtrak service is vital to our region and must not be used as a negotiating ploy with Congress for badly needed financial aid,� he added.
For more information about the Commuter Council, visit our website at:
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