Rail Use Advisory Council

Public Law 21, Chapter 239 gives the Maine Department of Transportation Commissioner the authority to establish a Rail Use Advisory Council, upon the petition of one or more governmental entities.

The purpose of this council is to facilitate discussion, gather information, and provide advice to the commissioner regarding the future use of a rail corridor identified in the petition. These recommendations will include the benefits and costs of potential uses of the rail corridor, including rail and trail use, with the understanding that any non-rail use of the corridor is considered interim in nature.

Rail corridors will continue to be preserved for future rail use as outlined in the Maine Rail Preservation Act

The Rail Use Advisory Council process creates an opportunity for all interested parties to thoughtfully and thoroughly have their concerns and opinions concerning the future of a rail corridor heard and documented.