Train Journey from Boston to Maine on the Downeaster Line
In 2025, the Downeaster train service from Boston to Maine is experiencing intermittent disruptions due to a massive railroad tie replacement project. The project, managed by CSX, involves replacing over 130,000 ties along 124 miles of track, necessitating temporary track closures and service adjustments.
The goal of the improvements is to allow simultaneous boarding and deboarding, expanding the scope of the Maine train service. This project is critical to maintaining safe and reliable rail service but does impact the Downeaster schedule and user experience.
The Downeaster train from Boston to Old Orchard Beach was canceled due to this project. Alternatives, such as bus shuttle service, may be deployed temporarily where train service is disrupted. For instance, the 11:25 am train from Boston was canceled, with the next train not arriving until 5:40 pm.
Maine will add a new station building to its Downeaster Amtrak train service in fall 2026, serving the small coastal village of Wells. This new station will provide a convenient stop for passengers, especially as more trains are expected to be added in 2026, including one that arrives in Portland before 8 am.
Meanwhile, the new daily commuter rail service from South Station in Boston to coastal cities New Bedford and Fall River, Massachusetts, has started. Although the line temporarily used buses for part of the route due to employee issues, the French operator, Keolis, has been able to staff the trains on weekends so far this summer.
Looking ahead, plans are underway for an overnight train with sleeping cars from Boston to New York, similar to European sleepers. Mike Avena, from Philadelphia, has proposed an ambitious plan for fancy train travel called the "Lunatrain." The plan includes building a new fleet of sleeping cars with horizontal full beds in small compartments, inspired by Dreamstar's luxury service in Europe.
In Connecticut, The Hartford Line is receiving a $25 million boost, with plans to add an extra weekday round-trip between New Haven and Hartford, extend weekend trains to the Windsor Locks Station, and increase customer service hours at Hartford Union Station.
For families or groups, Lunatrain plans to provide larger compartments that will be private, unlike European trains that may require sharing with strangers. The $11.8 million transformation at the Amtrak station in Wells includes a second high-level boarding platform, an elevated pedestrian bridge, upgrades to track capacity, and a temporary platform during construction.
When visiting Old Orchard Beach, the Beach Motel and Suites, located seven minutes from the Amtrak station, offers accommodation. However, it's worth noting that the rooms are small and lack side tables. Old Orchard Beach is recommended for its town appeal.
In summary, the ongoing railroad tie replacement project is causing intermittent Downeaster service disruptions from Boston to Maine in 2025 due to necessary track work and partial closures needed to complete the extensive replacement safely and effectively. Passengers are advised to check the schedule for updates and consider alternative transportation options during this period.
The railroad tie replacement project in 2025 is impacting not only the Downeaster schedule but also the travel industry, as the disruptions may force passengers to seek alternatives such as bus shuttle service for transportation.
With the addition of a new station building in Wells, Maine, in fall 2026, and plans for luxury trains like the Lunatrain offering private compartments, the lifestyle for rail travelers in the future may significantly improve, despite temporary inconveniences like the current Downeaster disruptions.
