Vermont slates meetings on rail growth policy

The Vermont Transportation Board has scheduled seven public forums to discuss the state's transportation policy on freight and passenger rail.

The meetings, which begin this month and run through Nov. 16, will help the state shape future rail policies to meet the needs of its residents, according to a press release issued by the board.

"Vermont is poised to significantly expand passenger rail in the very near future, while at the same time the state also is seeking growth opportunities for both the movement and off-loading of freight," said David Coen, the board's acting chair. "As a result, we want to have a conversation with Vermonters to both hear their suggestions as well as understand their concerns regarding these new services and how the state uses its rail lines."

Meeting discussions will include living with railroads as neighbors; expanding passenger-rail along Vermont's western corridor between Rutland and Burlington; and establishing commuter-rail service between Brattleboro and various points in Massachusetts.

After the meetings, the board will submit a written report to the Vermont Agency of Transportation and the state Legislature. The board will post the report on its website.