(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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