STB completes efforts involving MMA abandonment

The Surface Transportation Board today completed its work in the multiparty effort to preserve freight train service in northern Maine.

After months of STB-led
mediation and extensive involvement of federal, state, and local officials,
Maine businesses and workers, the Board formally approved the request of the
Montreal, Maine & Atlantic Railway to abandon 233 miles of rail line in
Aroostook and Penobscot counties. The action will pave the way for the state of
Maine to acquire the line and find a third-party operator to serve rail
customers in Northern Maine. Meanwhile, MM&A is continuing to operation the
line.

In addition to facilitating
mediation among the parties, the STB held a public hearing in Presque Isle,
Maine, on July 7, where Board members heard from state, federal and local
representatives, members of the public and MM&A officials.

 "I am pleased that the STB was able to play a role in keeping
the trains rolling in northern Maine,” said Board Chairman Daniel R. Elliott
III. "It is an important achievement that will preserve jobs and businesses in
the state and set the stage for future economic development."

Documents in the case,
Montreal, Maine & Atlantic Railway, Ltd-Discontinuance of Service and
Abandonment-in Aroostook and Penobscot Counties, ME, STB Docket No. AB-1043
(Sub-No. 1) are available at www.stb.dot.gov.