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Riders, towns and businesses urge funding to restore Shoreline East service
Summary
Community advocates, municipal leaders, business groups and riders pressed the committee to restore and expand Shoreline East rail service to pre-pandemic levels, saying ridership rebounds after small service increases and that more frequent trains support tourism, commuting, transit-oriented development and regional economic growth.
Multiple witnesses urged the committee to approve SB714 and to restore Shoreline East service to its pre-pandemic frequency. Susan Feaster, founder of the Shoreline East Riders Advocacy Group, presented ridership data showing sharp month-to-month increases after modest service restorations funded with $5 million in ARPA money. She told the committee that September'December 2024 ridership rose between 32% and 74% compared with the same months in 2023 and said the results show strong latent demand when trains run reliably.
Municipal leaders and business representatives testified the line supports tourism and local economies. Guilford First Selectman Matt Hoey and Madison First Selectman Peggy Lyons said restored service would help bring visitors to beaches and downtowns, support employers and enable transit-oriented housing near stations. Wynnham'area employers and institutional riders described the line as a practical commuter alternative if frequency and schedules better connect to destinations and to Metro-North transfer points.
DOT and regional planning witnesses acknowledged past cuts and said funding and operations choices affected the line more than other branches. DOT Commissioner Gary Iucolito described capital investments (new M8 cars and overhead-catenary upgrades) but said service levels require operating funds. He also described constraints such as coordination with Amtrak and the scheduling that affects through connections.
Advocates asked for a multi-year funding commitment and a feasibility study already completed that showed eastward extension options and potential ridership gains; witnesses asked the committee to turn the study findings into an operational plan and funding commitment. Committee members and DOT asked for updated ridership forecasts, an operating-cost plan, and clearer timelines for any expansion; most speakers requested prompt committee action so that summer 2025 travel season could see increased service.
