When it comes to the high-speed rail bypass, Old Lyme gets the lion's share of the press, but there are so many other communities along the coastline 'inconveniently' in-the-way of federal planning. Take a look at all the good works that would be undone in Hodges Square Village, just down the street from Connecticut College and the Lyman Allyn. A great little community, with a newly-registered historic district, and much to lose if the bypass is built.
How many minutes of travel time is your community worth on the way from New York to Boston?
New London's Hodge's Square gets state recognition
theday.com
New London — The Hodges Square Historic District is now listed on the state Register of Historic Places, thanks to unanimous approval by
1 week ago
Michael Sullivan, Rebecca Olson and 23 others like this
Bunnie Laine LubsToo much at stake for SE CT!
1 week ago · 4
Sharon S. StrykerNO bypass NEEDED, spend time on improving service, cost of riding current trains, save us from further debt, & PRESERVE WHAT EXISTS! This is somebody's political agenda, nothing to do with making service & meeting needs of riding public! KILL IT!
1 week ago · 2Rob BareissCan we tell from the FRA maps exactly where this rail line might go through New London? I understand it means a new Thames River crossing, but the exact placement of it is critical to people affected. Bypassing the New London trai station and others along the route is just foolish!
1 week ago · 1Pam SpencerNew London train station has always been tricky tracks.
1 week ago
Buy a ticket, and find out more at SECoast.org/fundraiser
1 week ago
Maureen Quintin, Rosemary Barclay and 23 others like this
SECoastDan Stevens will be playing the event in support of our efforts (thanks, Dan!), noted-photographer Kris Rowe will donating signed photographs to donors at the sponsor level (thanks Kristofer!), and David Rufo and the Bee and Thistle Inn will be hosting with food and drink (thanks, David!). It should be a beautiful night out under the tent in Old Lyme... and we're just the start.
1 week ago · 6Edie TwiningWow this is great!
1 week ago · 1ConnecticentricSharing.
4 days ago · 2
You can purchase tickets in advance here: secoast.org/donate/
1 week ago
Jerry Weiss, Dini Mallory and 7 others like this
Daniel MackaySECoast has worked so hard and so effectively for Old Lyme and southeastern seacoast communities. Please support them. Donations are tax deductible via donation to the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation.
1 week ago · 1
SECoast with Mystic, Connecticut and 2 others.
1 week ago
John Golden, Debra Monaghan Nazar and 6 others like this
SECoastWe had the pleasure of speaking with town leaders in Westerly, RI this evening. For those seeking more information, here is a map that we shared at the meeting. The purple line marks the new bypass proposal. The grey line marks the existing service.
1 week ago · 1Phillip Kenyon@elmridgegolf right through your property? #elmridgegolfcourse rail station?
1 week agoThank you, Joe Cugini and WBLQ out of Westerly, RI, for having us on your drive-time morning radio program. It's great to see Rhode Island and Connecticut coming out so strongly and on the same page against this plan. If this is NIMBY, well it is a heck of big backyard!
2 weeks ago
John Golden, Ann Rich and 3 others like this
Robert Thorson has a strong Op-Ed in the Hartford Courant opposing the rail bypass. Take a look.
Robert M. Thorson: Don't Let Amtrak Tear Through Shoreline Villages
courant.com
Federal Railroad Administration plans to put in new rail corridors to serve Amtrak would tear up some of Connecticut's scenic woodlands and towns and should be derailed, says Robert Thorson.
2 weeks ago
Susan Kneen Way, Norman Braverman and 23 others like this
Bridget CrookerNo bypass . No ruining our historic land.
2 weeks ago · 2Jesse Brownthey already will do it regardless
2 weeks agoWilliam StammThey keep trying to make the train more relevant. It serves its purpose the way it is just leave it alone.
2 weeks ago · 5Paula Niedert ElliottBravo!! Mr. Thorson!! Agree,and thank you!
2 weeks ago · 1Martha McGee Griswold PikeWick sure hope this works!
2 weeks ago · 1John BauerKeep to the existing track,,,rebuild the railroad bridge that's already there,,,
2 weeks agoCarole Ann Polanish AssmannHave you found out if THIS will affect you Michele Polanish Harrington
2 weeks agoBruce PickThe article's very last paragraph contains his alternative suggestion: "If higher speeds are true needs, then let's get them by raising the existing track above coastal storm surges, give the train more lean on curves, upgrade derelict bridges, reduce the number of stops, and increase the accelerations. The last thing we need is to ruin more landscape in the pursuit of technological excellence." I like it - BUT he gave no discussion of its feasibility or cost. One item comes to mind; I'm sure there are many other potential concerns: Assuming track speeds are increased by banking the curves at a greater angle, will trains still be able to travel safely at low speeds when forced to do so by weather or other factors?
2 weeks ago · 2Catharine HaffThank you for posting this!! We're worried about the lack of transparency from the Federal government
2 weeks ago · 1Jon PerssonTime for overhead rail that follows I 95.
2 weeks ago · 1Bridget CrookerIf enough people and let your let your legislatures, senate, congress. Flood them with calls and emails. Many are running now.
2 weeks agoMichael TaskoskiReminds me that every time I drive through niantic I notice how ugly the tracks are that run right by the beach, completely ruining the view.
2 weeks ago · 1Kevin McCuskerDrew McCusker. Wonder if this will affect your backyard.... literally lol
2 weeks agoRobin MaillettNever ever again!
1 week ago · 1Marcia MatthewsThe shoreline is destined to erode. Amtrak should keep its current footprint.
1 week agoMary VaughnNo!!!
1 week ago · 1We were pleased yesterday to meet representatives from as far away as Providence, and I am happy to report that the message was clear: the bypass is bad for the state of Connecticut and bad for the state of Rhode Island. I have to say, that the indications of cooperation across state lines yesterday were remarkable, an excellent sign of our progress in opposing the bypass.
Please support our efforts to block the Kenyon to Saybrook bypass and to build a professional team to attack this problem while we can still maximize our leverage, our legal and political avenues. All donations are tax-deductible when designated for SECoast through the CT Trust. 100% of your donations will be devoted to this fight to protect the region.
cttrust.z2systems.com/donation.jsp?campaign=55&
Opponents of rail plan joining forces The Westerly Sun
thewesterlysun.com
2 weeks ago
Sarah Shrewsbury, Monique Foster and 21 others like this
The coverage in The Day makes tier 1 and 2 sound positively fiery! I am glad to report that we met with representatives from as far away as Providence. It was quite clear that there is a significant concern spreading into Rhode Island, as our neighbors take a careful look at the plan. It was also a very promising sign of just how quickly the opposition has begun to spread along the entire corridor.
To be clear: This is a growing regional effort. We are leading it. We have a daily presence in the press, great cooperation at the state and federal level, and we are building a serious, professional effort to maximize our chances to block this proposal before it takes on a life of its own. Please support our efforts. Donations are tax-deductible, and will be well-spent.
cttrust.z2systems.com/donation.jsp?campaign=55&
Rail bypass opponents gather in Mystic
theday.com
Mystic — The head of the group opposing an Amtrak bypass through the region told a group of about 25 business leaders and officials
2 weeks ago
Ann Rich, Annie Breeding and 7 others like this
A very productive meeting and talk with the Ocean Community Chamber of Commerce in Mystic today. The meeting was well-attended by local and state representatives, and candidates, of Rhode Island and southeastern Connecticut, Joyce Reznikoff one of the leading figures in the region, Rob Simmons, business owners and others. Reporters for the Westerly Sun and New London Day were also present.
What Lisa Konicki has put together there is quite impressive, and frankly, speaks loudly to the potential economic impacts for the entire state and region if this bypass goes through as planned. There is no doubt they are taking this issue very seriously, and their message of unity is one for every town and community in the region. A great showing. I appreciate the invitation and opportunity to speak.
2 weeks ago
Mary Ellen Garbarino, Ann Rich and 17 others like this
Lori RobishawThanks for coming to the meeting. While Old Lyme has done most of the heavy lifting thus far, it's become clear to me that this is very much a regional issue and the last thing we need is for the FRA to get so far with this that they end up pitting towns against one another.
2 weeks ago · 2SECoastI'm not exactly a fiery speaker, discussing "same as NEC," tier 1 and tier 2, but perhaps The Day rightly channeled our spirited defense of the region... www.theday.com/local/20160913/rail-bypass-opponents-gather-in-mystic
2 weeks ago · 2
A strong letter by State Rep. Devin Carney in the New London Day. Thank you, Devin!
Amtrak proposal is a 'dark cloud'
theday.com
I would like to recognize the hundreds of people who attended last week’s meeting with the Federal Rail Administration in Old Lyme. It was
2 weeks ago
Deborah Marshall-Cleary, Erica Zapatka and 23 others like this
Robert LeeIs this the trains that's coming?
2 weeks agoTerrie LightfootCan't view the article unless I login or register
2 weeks agoLinda A. StirlingAgreed! Who does it benefit - not too many - who does it hurt - so many towns with historic roots to the sea.
2 weeks ago · 1I'm not sure how many of you read Christine Stuart's news site, CT News Junkie. Well you should. Jack Kramer on her site has an excellent piece up on the bypass. A must-read (I guess I have been saying that a lot this morning).
Please also support our work with a tax-deductible donation through the button at the top of our page. 80% of what we do is invisible, but the results aren't.
On Friday I will be joining a conference call with people reaching out possibly to offer serious national-level support. I would like to say to them, that southeastern Connecticut is reaching back. Please donate. I promise you, it will be well-spent.
Documents Contradicting Statements About Future Rail Route Emerge Then Disappear | CT News Junkie
ctnewsjunkie.com
Two groups opposed to a new high-speed Amtrak rail line through a historic section of Old Lyme are claiming records its obtained show that public hearings are a charade and that approval for the project is a done deal despite opposition.
3 weeks ago
Annie Breeding, Ann M Mott and 23 others like this
Michael SullivanAs you are aware, the tracks don't stop in the historic area but travel through homes all along the area north of I 95. That includes the two oldest homes in Old Lyme that are not near the "historic center" of town. Many of these homes are historic to the families that live in them and should be given equal importance.
3 weeks ago · 2Dennis GrimesIf the FRA has to reroute this line then it should be done at the Westbrook / Old saybrook line where the tracks come close to I-95 and then follow I-95 or in Madison where its is right next to I-95. This could be put into the states plan to rebuild I-95 to R.I. As a person who grew up and had family in and around the area I never want to see the things like this happen to historic area's, So I support your effort and will ask my NH leadership to work with CT to stop it in its tracks.
3 weeks agoHolly WilcoxI agree Dennis Grimes. I hope this does not go through. When is the next meeting for this I would like to attend.
3 weeks ago · 1Holly WilcoxVery interesting that these people would push so hard on this matter.Hummmmmm shady to me .Just saying once a planned meeting by these people. and many signed for no Rail Way to come through .But ignored.Why then have a meeting and people do come voice their opinion's but they over looked? And by the way have this done at a time where a lot of people can not attend because they are still at work. No this is shady to me.Something so important like this is for all communities to be involved.I say absolutely not have this go through.
3 weeks agoJanet LageNot surprised about the DOT. There must of been talk about how widening 95 will fit in. What is going on here?!
3 weeks agoIf there is one newspaper article you have to read this morning, it's Ana Radelat's piece in the CT Mirror. She breaks open the story.
Radelat quotes a top Conn DOT official, Richard Andreski, admitting that the FRA had settled on the bypass in November, just around the start of public comment. Andreski admits that Conn DOT has known all along.
Feds’ undisclosed ‘preferred route’ for rail lines sparks outrage
ctmirror.org
WASHINGTON – While the federal government was spending months soliciting feedback from the public on several alternatives for overhauling the railroads in the Northeast corridor, it had already identified a preferred plan that would dramatically change rail travel in Connecticut.
3 weeks ago
Anthony Veilleux, Debra Monaghan Nazar and 4 others like this
Peter DionThis situation is now not just about a railroad route through important sections of the local area, it's about the government lying to the people. It is now about the people's faith in the government.
3 weeks ago · 3SECoastPlease consider donating to support our work. 80% of what we do is invisible, but look at the results. There is a button at the top right of the page, and it's tax-deductible. We need your help.
3 weeks ago · 2The Westerly Sun writes in, and they are not buying FRA denials...
www.thewesterlysun.com/news/westerly/9341235-154/groups-say-feds-state-predetermined-rail-bypass-...
Groups say feds, state predetermined rail bypass route skipping Westerly in April The Westerly Sun
thewesterlysun.com
The Westerly Sun is a local print and digital daily newspaper covering all local news, sports and community events in the Southern Rhode Island and Southeastern Connecticut area
3 weeks ago
Urve Earthy, Frank Pappalardo and 6 others like this
Another good piece from Kim Drelich at The Day (How does she get these quotes from Blumenthal?). Drelich reels in a remarkable array of denial on the part of the FRA.
Combine this with Ana Radelat's piece in the CT Mirror, and we are beginning to have quite a story... ctmirror.org/2016/09/07/feds-undisclosed-preferred-route-for-rail-lines-sparks-outrage/
Organization says maps show FRA's preferred routes
theday.com
SECoast and the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation say they have new evidence that the Federal Railroad Administration has
3 weeks ago
Jennifer Morgan, Annie Breeding and 8 others like this
SECoastWe encourage you to comment (politely!) on this piece on the newspaper's own website.
3 weeks agoJoe CarpentinoSeems like the FRA put the cart in front of the horse and is being forced to back-pedal. It's refreshing to see them being called out and ultimately (I hope) held accountable.
3 weeks ago · 1Conn DOT official admits that the FRA decided "10 months ago" -- Big breaking news and a mus-read from Ana Radelet of the CT Mirror...
Feds’ undisclosed ‘preferred route’ for rail lines sparks outrage
ctmirror.org
WASHINGTON – While the federal government was spending months soliciting feedback from the public on several alternatives for overhauling the railroads in the Northeast corridor, it had already identified a preferred plan that would dramatically change rail travel in Connecticut.
3 weeks ago
Hank Horn, Candace Nash and 19 others like this
SECoast"Andreski told the Connecticut Mirror he had the first indication there was a preferred route after speaking with FRA officials about 10 months ago. That’s about the time the FRA released its three-alternative plan for the public to consider."
3 weeks agoSECoastTo be clear, this piece is huge. It implicates both the FRA and Conn DOT in a planning process which was over before it began.
3 weeks ago · 1SECoastPlease comment on the story itself on the CT Mirror Website!
3 weeks agoSECoastIf our work is important to you please consider donating to support us. There is a button at the top right. It's tax-deductible.
3 weeks ago · 3Mallory Martha DaleyDaley Sue i heard about this on the radio this morning... very sketchy. Also, it apparently runs right through Mystic Aquarium... Wonder how that is going to work?
3 weeks ago · 2
So... ACHP has taken down the completed public documents posted a little over a week ago to a government website and linked in our Press Release. What does that even mean?
Not to worry you can find them up on our server here:
secoast.org/…/upl…/2016/09/nec-future-investment-program.pdf
3 weeks ago
Maria Dornfried, Robin Breeding and 4 others like this
Daniel MackayNote the Google Tab Headers
3 weeks ago · 2SECoastRather than hiding a government document, perhaps the FRA should try to explain it.
3 weeks agoSo... ACHP has taken down completed public documents posted a little over a week ago to a government website. What does that even mean? Not to worry you can find them up on our server here:
secoast.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/nec-future-investment-program.pdf
secoast.org
3 weeks ago
Ellie Levin Krasney, Dini Mallory and 7 others like this
SECoastRather than hiding a government document, I think the FRA needs to explain it.
3 weeks agoTop news in Politico's much-read Transportation blog.
The latest includes continued denials from the FRA and a statement from Blumenthal...
Much more to come.
www.politico.com/tipsheets/morning-transportation
"WHAT'S DONE IS DONE? A pair of Connecticut-based groups said Tuesday they've found a document showing that - despite the FRA's claims that no final decision has been made - the agency finalized maps detailing its preferred route for future upgrades to Amtrak's Northeast Corridor in April, and that state agencies signed off on the information as part of their historic preservation obligations starting in July. The FRA told POLITICO it has not finalized anything and a recommendation will be made later this year.
Blumenthal seeks answers: One proposed change would affect residents of Old Lyme, Conn ....
politico.com
All set for train safety smackdown — Amtrak's watching you (sometimes)
3 weeks ago
Mary Stone, Michael Sullivan and 14 others like this
BREAKING NEWS!
SECoast and our state-wide partner, the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation, are breaking national news this morning. It appears that the FRA has been circulating the final Tier 1 EIS - the finalized map - since mid July. The maps were completed on April 6. The bypass is included in the finalized maps dated April 6.
The overall plan appears to be Alt 2 with 2 modifications, as was discussed by Conn DOT Commissioner James Redeker in internal emails on February 18, and denied Redeker in a closed door meeting with SECoast executive director Gregory Stroud on July 7.
Don't be surprised if the FRA tries to walk this back...
Here is the text from our press release
Documents Reveal Federal Railroad Administration Chose Routes for High Speed Rail through Connecticut in April; Advocates Call Last Week’s FRA Forum in Old Lyme a “Charade”
Old Lyme, CT -- (Tuesday, Sept. 6) -- Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) documents obtained by SECoast and the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation reveal that the FRA finalized maps for new Amtrak high-speed rail routes through Connecticut as early as April 6, 2016 and that this information was known by CT state agencies no later than mid-July.
Maps included in the documentation show a “Preferred Alternative” which includes a “coastal bypass” through southeastern Connecticut. The bypass is now opposed by every municipality on the proposed route. The “Preferred Alternative” also confirms new high-speed rail routes through Fairfield County, Connecticut. The document includes a sign-off from the Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) dated July 21, 2016. The document finalizes procedures for how the FRA will address historic resource impacts from future construction of high speed rail routes and related projects.
These dates contradict months of denials by both the FRA and Connecticut Department of Transportation (CONNDOT) that the route is not finalized, including assurances by NEC Future Project Manager Rebecca Reyes-Alicea at a long-sought August 31 public forum in Old Lyme. That meeting was attended by Sen. Richard Blumenthal, Rep. Joe Courtney, state legislators, and local leaders, as well as a standing-room-only crowd of more than 500 residents from throughout the region.
Dates and signatures on these documents show that the FRA circulated maps of their preferred high speed rail route to state and federal agencies no later than July 12, 2016. The FRA document is available at www.achp.gov/docs/nec-future-investment-program.pdf. That same week, both the FRA and CONNDOT issued official denials that internal Connecticut DOT emails, obtained by SECoast through the Freedom of Information Act, suggested a decision on the “Preferred Alternative” occurred as early as February 18, 2016 -- just two days after the close of public comment.
Gregory Stroud, executive director of SECoast, a regional organization leading grassroots opposition to the planned bypass, described the denials and withholding of information by the FRA and Connecticut DOT as “cynical.” “If you look at these maps, it’s pretty obvious this is the same plan that Connecticut DOT Commissioner James Redeker described in email back on February 18th. That’s just two days after the FRA received well over a thousand public comments in opposition to the bypass. For Reyes-Alecia to come to Old Lyme and pretend that her agency values public input, suggests not just flawed planning, but bad faith.” Stroud pointed out that two Freedom of Information requests to the FRA, for detailed maps and planning documents on the bypass, remain outstanding. Those requests were filed on April 4, 2016.
“Connecticut is more impacted by routing of Amtrak’s next generation of high speed rail service than any other state between Washington and Boston,” observed Daniel Mackay, Executive Director of the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation. “Now that FRA’s preferred route for high speed rail is finally public, the first step the agency should take to rebuild public trust is to reopen the public comment period on the Tier 1 EIS. Our state’s residents deserve the opportunity to comment on the single final route proposed through Connecticut, and a final decision on routing should be delayed until meaningful public input has been entered into the record and answered.”
Mackay noted that none of the public’s questions submitted in advance of the FRA’s forum in Old Lyme last week will become part of the Tier 1 EIS public record. As such, the FRA is not required to provide answers to those questions, or acknowledge receipt of petitions totaling over 4000 names in opposition in southeastern Connecticut, unless the public comment period is re-opened.
If FRA does not reopen the public comment period, an “official” announcement of the “Preferred Alternative” is expected in September, with a final Record of Decision to be published later in the fall.
SECoast is a wholly independent special project of the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation devoted to the issue of high speed rail along the Northeast Corridor in Connecticut. Launched in 2016, this collaborative effort partners concerned local residents in Southeastern Connecticut and the Lower Connecticut River Valley with the state-wide resources and expertise of The Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation.
The Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation preserves, protects and promotes the buildings, sites, structures and landscapes that contribute to the heritage and vitality of Connecticut communities.
####
Supporting documentation and a timeline are provided below:
Selected quotes from the press detailing denials by the FRA and the Connecticut DOT:
July 1, 2016, The Day (New London, CT), Drelich, Kimberly. “Organization says emails show FRA wants bypass through Old Lyme.”
www.theday.com/article/20160701/NWS01/160709901
"The FRA said in response that it has not made a decision on its preferred alternative."
State DOT Spokesman Judd Everhart confirmed that the DOT released the emails.
But he said the DOT still is awaiting a decision from the FRA on a "preferred alternative" for an upgrade of the corridor.
He noted that they are nowhere near choosing a final design for expansion in the corridor, never mind actually starting construction.
"FRA has not yet selected a vision, or even potential routes, for the Northeast Corridor," Matthew Lehner, director of communications for the FRA, said in an emailed statement.
Dana Honor, a Murphy spokeswoman, said Thursday (June 30th) that "There has not yet been any official ruling on which plan the FRA will choose, but Sen. Murphy will continue urging all agencies involved to listen to the people of Old Lyme and come to a decision that benefits both Connecticut travelers and those who call the area home."
July 14, 2106, The Hartford Courant, Stacom, Don. “Blumenthal Slams Idea Of Amtrak Bypass Through Old Lyme.“
www.courant.com/…/hc-blumenthal-amtrak-0714-20160713…
"Unfortunately, some of the ideas the FRA has proposed are frankly half-baked, harebrained notions that will never come to fruition — including rerouting Amtrak straight through the community of Old Lyme … and other shoreline communities where there is strong, understandable and well-merited opposition," Blumenthal told (Amtrak Vice President Stephen Gardner) Gardner at a Senate subcommittee hearing this week. “
“Gardner replied … the FRA has said that any alarm about its long-term alternatives is needless, since it's only in the early stages of study. The agency has said it isn't close to designing detailed plans for any of the alternatives.”
August 17, 2016, POLITICO, Morning Transportation. “Old Lyme doesn’t want a new rail bridge.”
www.politico.com/…/check-another-one-off-obamas-truc…
[Quoting an FRA Aide in response]”What's more, he said, the agency has already committed to local leaders that if the bypass makes it into the final blueprint...”
August 23, 2016, The Westerly Sun, (Westerly, RI) White, Brooke Constance. “Group seeks more info on bypass.”
www.thewesterlysun.com/…/group-seeks-more-info-on-ra…
“When asked to respond to questions about the proposed alternatives, a Federal Railroad Administration spokesperson said: “FRA has not yet selected a vision, or even potential routes, for the Northeast Corridor. We have met with many leaders and residents throughout the corridor, including in Connecticut, and have talked with them about their concerns. We are taking these opinions into account as we continue our work.”
August 31, 2016, CT Mirror, Constable, Kyle “Federal rail official: ‘No elevated track’ in Old Lyme; spokesman creates doubt, but later clarifies”
ctmirror.org/…/federal-rail-official-no-elevated-tr…/
[Marc Willis, an FRA spokesman in retraction:]
“If the new segment is included in the final vision for the Northeast Corridor, FRA has committed to not have an aerial structure through the historic district of Old Lyme,” Willis said. “A tunnel is on the table.”
“The next step in the process – if we get there – is the Tier II review, which includes additional opportunities for input from leaders and citizens,” Willis added.
achp.gov
3 weeks ago
Urve Earthy, Jane Schellens and 23 others like this
Ed ThereaultDisgusting!
3 weeks ago · 4Dennis M. DohertyNo different than the electrification. It was a 'done deal' before news hit the streets.
3 weeks agoSECoastTo be clear, this is not over by a long shot.
3 weeks ago · 2Jennifer MorganCan't say I'm surprised. Thought the meeting in town was a dog and pony show.and now this confirms it. Nothing short of manipulating the public trust and it would be interesting to find out who else knew this and for how long...how complicit the other cast of characters (conspirators) are in this shell game.
3 weeks ago · 1Ann RichThis makes me angry to no end!! In typical government fashion, the meeting two weeks ago was completely for show and tell and the FRA officials had no intent of incorporating any input from the public or even listening. They just don't care!! I'm ready to join Senator Blumenthal and anyone else and laying down on the tracks!
3 weeks ago · 2Jennifer MorganLooks like the storm brought more than rain...winds shift and so does public opinion. Black Cloud hangs over Federal Railroad Administration.
3 weeks agoWendy Doherty DouglasJust wrong!
3 weeks agoCharlotte LymanConfirms everyone's worst suspicions. Maddening news. But great work by SECoast!
3 weeks ago · 2SECoastThank you. All your support is much appreciated!
3 weeks ago · 2Pamm SummersI stopped trusting the gov't, politicians, and big business a long time ago. If their lips are moving, they are lying😡
3 weeks agoLinda A. StirlingLied to again. They don't care about the towns! Again 20 min gain - not in anyway worth the money. Improve what they have now and don't waste more money and our natural resources and history.
3 weeks ago · 2Sharan A CarneyThank you for following this issue so diligently for us.
3 weeks ago · 4Daniel MackayWe've seen first-hand the extraordinary diligence and attention to detail by SECoast to this issue. They've been breaking news on this issue since day 1, and did so once again. Please make an "as generous as possible" donation to support the work of this grassroots group: secoast.org/donate/
3 weeks ago · 2Ronald SinagraElected (and unelected) government officials doing THEIR will, not the will of the people. They don't care that we want to preserve our historic communities. They only care about their paychecks, next promotion, and taxpayer funded pensions.
3 weeks ago · 2Libby Manchester GilpatricCan you file a class action suit against FRA for all the lying? And due to reverse their action so far? Get some helluva tough lawyer! Act! Don't just say tut tut! F them right back.
3 weeks agoStephanie M. BrockettTo be honest I'm surprised there is enough rail travel with the age of uber, to Warrant new lines.
3 weeks agoDzintra RoweThere is no reason they can't build a rail higher off the coast. It would also be cheaper. From my understanding a High speed Train doesn't stop locally so why use old shore line routes?
3 weeks ago
FRA ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION OLD LYME CT 08-31-16.mpg
Couldn't make the FRA meeting on August 31 in Old Lyme. We have an amateur video up, until we get our official copy on Thursday. If you want to download it, just be aware it's 4.3 gb
drive.google.com/file/d/0B80ZDfz6iN2UbENCbXdNNjB5Q1k/view?usp=sharing_eid&ts=57cbbc93
drive.google.com
3 weeks ago
Nancy Baldwin Manville, Debra Monaghan Nazar and 4 others like this
Constance AyarsSurreal!
3 weeks agoJenn MillerRedeker did not say one word that I recall... After being 30 mins late. Awesome CT taxpayer dollars at work.
3 weeks agoExcellent rundown on the meeting from Ed Munster for a local online magazine. Munster has spent enough years in politics and preservation work, that he has an ear for the fine points. Pay attention to his mention of stakeholder contact. That's important.
4 weeks ago
Daniel Mackay, Maryanne Lange and 5 others like this
Four generations of railroad in Kevin Hogan's family, that probably why they have piece running on WFSB. These communities are built around a history of railroads. Take a look.
Plans to upgrade rail system could cut through Old Lyme's historic district
wfsb.com
Old Lyme residents were trying to de-rail plans to improve rail service from Washington to Boston during a hearing on Wednesday night.
4 weeks ago
Robin Breeding, Donna Secondino and 14 others like this
Jenn Miller"Could"? Would. Period.
4 weeks ago · 1Rebecca CrosbyWhat a great turn out Wednesday afternoon! I hope our voices were heard loud and clear. Thank you, Greg, for your work on public awareness.
4 weeks ago · 2A strong statement from the The New London Day.
Message delivered, but will FRA hear it?
theday.com
The Federal Railroad Administration needs to get the message sent loud and clear by the audience that packed Lyme-Old Lyme High School on Wednesday.
4 weeks ago
Nanette Salvino, Olwen Logan and 18 others like this
Jennifer MorganYep time will tell. Actions speak louder than words.
4 weeks agoso... the FRA retracts its backpedal and in the process reconfirms that the bridge is very definitely on-the-table. READ THIS PIECE.
(it's revised from the original below).
Federal rail official: ‘No elevated track’ in Old Lyme; spokesman backpedals
ctmirror.org
OLD LYME — Less than an hour after a top federal rail administrator Wednesday renewed her agency’s promise not to build an aerial rail line through Old Lyme’s historic district, a spokesman for the agency backpedaled on the statement and said it could not be ruled out entirely.
4 weeks ago
Nancy Baldwin Manville, Lori Robishaw and 9 others like this
SECoastBut after the event concluded, Marc Willis, an FRA spokesman, was asked about the possibility of an environmental or logistical obstacle preventing the construction of a tunnel. He said he could not rule out the possibility of going back to an aerial structure in the next phase of the project called Tier II. “Everything will be looked at in Tier II,” Willis said. When pressed on whether that would include an aerial structure, he said, “I can’t say. I can’t say right now.” “Right now, we don’t know,” Willis added. Late Wednesday evening, Willis revised his initial remarks, saying “maybe I misspoke.” He then referred back to Reyes-Alicea’s comment during the meeting. His earlier remarks, Willis said, were reflective of the FRA’s overall shift from Tier I to Tier II, where the process essentially “starts all over again.” He said the residents’ clear and overwhelming opposition to an aerial structure – and the agency’s commitment not to build one – “would lead the direction of the conversation in Tier II
4 weeks agoSECoastPart of Reyes-Alecia's skill is that she is enormously easy to underestimate. The boring slides are designed to take the air out of the room (thank God they started with Courtney and Blumenthal). She ducked making any clear promises. She is very very bright woman. She might of been the pinata -- it's her job -- but she won every point she could control, and came away with a win. Either the FRA drops the plan within the week, or we are moving to tier 2 and likely an unmapped route. I'm not sure of the answer.
4 weeks agoErica RobbNote too that Reyes-Alicea was very careful of her phrasing each time: "no aerial structure over or near the Old Lyme historic district." That's a very narrow interpretation.
4 weeks ago · 2Jessie HoadleyContinue to distrust!
4 weeks agoSECoastJessie, the key is that in a democracy, we shouldn't have to rely on trust. We rely on open government, open meetings, the Freedom of Information Act, preservation and conservation law. We believe that every single one of those pillars has been violated, repeatedly, in spirit, and some as a matter of law. Reyes-Alecia's walkback combined with her failure to produce public documents as required under the FOIA says enough. Going forward, if this reaches tier 2, do we really expect that they will act better?
4 weeks ago · 2Read this very carefully. It might be the key takeaway.
ctmirror.org/2016/08/31/federal-rail-official-no-elevated-track-in-old-lyme-spokesman-backpedals/
Federal rail official: ‘No elevated track’ in Old Lyme; spokesman backpedals
ctmirror.org
OLD LYME — Less than an hour after a top federal rail administrator Wednesday renewed her agency’s promise not to build an aerial rail line through Old Lyme’s historic district, a spokesman for the agency backpedaled on the statement and said it could not be ruled out entirely.
4 weeks ago
Nancy Baldwin Manville, Janie Stanley and 21 others like this
SECoast“We did make a commitment – and this is in large part because of our initial conversations – a commitment not to go with an aerial structure,” Reyes-Alicea said. “Again, it’s all representative in nature in terms of the routing options and the locations of that, but we also just want to make sure that we’re being responsive, and committing to not doing an aerial structure.” But after the event concluded, Marc Willis, an FRA spokesman, was asked about the possibility of an environmental or logistical obstacle preventing the construction of a tunnel. He said he could not rule out the possibility of going back to an aerial structure in the next phase of the project called Tier II. “Everything will be looked at in Tier II,” Willis said. When pressed on whether that would include an aerial structure, he said, “I can’t say. I can’t say right now.” “Right now, we don’t know,” Willis added.
4 weeks agoRuss ToddWith the entire CT shoreline opposed to the bypass, as represented by yesterday's meeting in OL (we are extremely thankful to the strong support of ALL neighboring communities on the shoreline), the only question that needs to be asked of Rebecca Reyes-Alicea (FRA) at this point is, Why is the bypass still on the map? Who is keeping it on the map and why? When will it be removed from the map? This does not need to be studied any further, it is obvious that either a tunnel and aerial structure through the heart of OL would be severely damaging to OL and the entire CT shoreline, as discussed yesterday, with no clear benefit to CT. It is clear that the lack of upfront due diligence by the FRA prior to slating the bypass as a potential route truly merits the term "half-baked" and keeping the bypass on the map at this point is a continued waste of effort, resources and tax payer money.
4 weeks ago · 3After 8 months of working on this issue, these 7 questions sum up many of our concerns. We have submitted them to the office of the First Selectwoman, and hope that they will be discussed. Many of these questions have been asked (without answer) in meetings and emails with James Redeker, David Carol and Rebecca Reyes-Alicea. Hopefully tomorrow in a public forum we will have better luck.
1. If the Kenyon to Old Saybrook bypass is selected as part of the preferred alternative, and subsequent study concludes that a tunnel is infeasible, will the FRA and Connecticut DOT rule out any possible reversion to an additional bridge or aerial structure at or near Old Lyme?
2. Does the Federal Railroad Administration have more detailed or higher-resolution maps used in the planning of the Kenyon to Old Saybrook bypass than are available on the NEC Future Website? And if so, why hasn’t the Federal Railroad Administration completed a narrowly-focused Freedom of Information request for these maps, dating to April 4, 2016?
3. Given that the Kenyon to Old Saybrook bypass was a relatively late addition to the NEC Planning process, do you feel comfortable that the bypass has received sufficient public and professional scrutiny to be included as part of a preferred alternative? To be clear, the bypass was included after the original 98 plans had been narrowed down to 3 action alternatives. Is that correct?
4. In a meeting in Old Lyme on July 7, Commissioner Redeker suggested that the Federal Railroad Adminstration has contemplated removing a mapped route of the Kenyon to Old Saybrook bypass from the preferred alternative, but including instead an unmapped bypass concept. Can you confirm or rule out this idea of an unmapped concept? And if you cannot rule it out, could you explain how towns in southeastern could judge the relative benefits and impacts of an unmapped route? Could an unmapped route open the way for other routings and greater impacts to New London or East Lyme or Old Saybrook, for example?
5. On August 2, the Federal Railroad Administration notified our two regional planning organizations: RiverCog and SCCOG, that they would be expected to submit “letters of consistency.” Could you explain why the FRA wants letters of consistency, and how submitting or witholding such letters would impact future state and federal funding for southeastern Connecticut? Will the Federal Railroad Administration and the Connecticut DOT commit to not using such letters as a lever to force acceptance of NEC Future planning by towns in southeastern Connecticut?
6. I would like to read briefly from a January 4 article on NEC Future published in the Connecticut Mirror, which I think sums up many of our concerns in southeastern Connecticut. To quote,
“[E]ven James Redeker, Connecticut’s transportation commissioner and the chair of the Northeast Corridor Commission that oversaw development of the study, was not sure it provided those affected by it with enough to judge it.
The problem, he said, was the process. This environmental impact statement was not a traditional one that would have provided plans to solve specific problems along with all the relevant environmental, economic and other data, such as, in the case of rail, ridership information. Instead, NEC Future offered rail corridor options consisting of general locations, little detail about what it would take to put the rails there, no service development plan, and a broad price tag - but no funding strategy. That's not enough for people to make even a conceptual choice, Redeker said, though that is what people are being asked to do.” “How are we supposed to make choices if we don’t know what service we’re going to get and if we don’t know yet if you’re going to turn to us to pay for that, and to what degree?” Redeker said. “I think this is going to be difficult for the public to provide meaningful input on.” .... He said he doesn’t yet know how he’ll respond. "If I can’t demonstrate to Connecticut folks that there’s a substantial and documentable and believable return on investment for transportation dollars, you might as well put them somewhere else,” he said.
Ms. Reyes-Alicea, can you explain to me what has happened over last 8 months to address Commissioner Redeker’s concerns with the planning process?
7. If NEC Future is a new blueprint for planning and funding the NEC Corridor, replacing an expiring plan dating back to 1978, what happens in terms of funding if the Federal Railroad Administration simply goes back to the drawing board? Can transportation projects be handled piecemeal without locking ourselves into an obviously flawed plan for the next 25 years?
4 weeks ago
Charles England, Tina DuBosque and 23 others like this
Jennifer MorganYour work is thorough and appreciated with questions and issues raised that will continue the momentum to derail this project and preserve the tranquility and natural beauty of old lyme.
4 weeks ago · 7Jenn Miller#8. Who is in Redeker's pocket, or vice versa?
4 weeks ago · 1Rebecca GriffinThank you for your hard work. I just left the meeting and feel that the representative from the FRA did not answer questions. "Further analysis" were her favorite words. Loved the support from our elected officials.
4 weeks ago · 6SECoastThank you guys for showing up and making everyone proud, You are right to have very serious concerns, but the support from across New London County was huge and important and should not be discounted. I might take a day before breaking it apart. I am most curious about the coverage in CT Mirror by their cub reporter.... I am expecting a blockbuster interview with Reyes-Alecia. Passero's strong stand was huge and greatly appreciated.
4 weeks ago · 2Jennifer MorganHard to believe an organization that plans builds and runs railroad systems has such a vision and yet didn't "envision" the outcry from little Ole lyme and the surrounding "outposts" on the shoreline corridor focusing on what New Haven and Hartford had to say. Hard to believe their big picture vision has had so little of a real engine to get to the next station. Yes they listened..care..will engage and co opt the communities and stakeholders at the level 2 tier .but my sense is after they choose their preferred alternative at tier 1. Bit of a double message or did I misunderstand? Also why no comment or input..aka communication by her colleague who was,said to have spent more time than anyone else out in the communities at the historical commission level.
4 weeks agoJennifer MorganLess contentious then I thought which is pisitive in some,ways but some glad handling and white washing in others. Good for Rep. Carney to call a spade is a spade and for New London 's mayors ardent stance and reminder of past experiences dealing with the "rail administration." Also Sen Blumenthal and Rob Simmons for driving home the economic reality of holding some purse strings and for sharing promises made that weren't kept in the past. Good to see and feel part of "standing up and voicing concerns with incisive questions and concerns (many unanswered) and may answered agreeing to follow up...neither responding to the yes or no questions asked. Time will tell and the proof is in the pudding. Why not spend the money on the front end properly communicating and leading a vision for change with proper staffing out on a community level ..the real stakeholders.
4 weeks ago · 1SECoastVery on-point reads, Jennifer. Thank you. Keep your observations coming.
4 weeks agoJennifer MorganCan't help but sense there was and still could be more " railroading "going on. What is clear is that while many seemed pleased with the show and tell presentation... on the idea ..big picture philosophy many still look to the logic (or lack there of) on the reality and practicality of implementation.
4 weeks agoJennifer MorganFinal concern for the night is...what if they don't need the state funding. They got the loan to finance the "trainsets" maybe they have a line on funding the tracks too ..idk.
4 weeks agoErica RobbI found it interesting (and dismaying) to watch the various news channels afterwards. I didn't see channel 3's report, but the ones I watched absolutely did not explain the issue, nor did they talk about the extraordinary show of unity on the stage. Just seemed interested in saying it was a large crowd. Is there a simple one-page bullet list that can be sent out of what the FRA has proposed and why we don't like it? Reporters don't read dense text and need to be fed the story. (PS: Thanks for your hard work - I had a list of your questions in hand and know that some of them were asked, but not answered.)
4 weeks ago · 1
SECoast shared iCRV Radio's photo.
Ibby and David Williams on iCRV radio had us on to discuss the latest news on high speed rail in Connecticut, and on the upcoming public meeting with the Federal Railroad Administration, Senator Blumenthal, Rep. Courtney, State Senator Formica, State Rep. Carney, among many others: tomorrow, Wednesday August 31, at 4:30 (come early!) at the Old Lyme High School Auditorium on Lyme Street, in Old Lyme.
Listen to the broadcast at 3:30 and 9 pm today (Tuesday) and again at noon tomorrow. Stay-tuned also for news on iCRV as it happens.
Listen on iCRVradio.com
1 month ago
Karrie-Ann Morris, Debra Monaghan Nazar and 8 others like this
SECoastI'm not sure how exact the timing is, but the music is normally great...
1 month ago · 1SECoastNice people... spending their time on things that matter, and helping others. The best part of setting up SECoast has been working every day with people like Ibby, David, Jeffrey, Dan, Dini, Daniel, Olwen, Robin, Russ and a lot of others...
4 weeks ago
4:30, on a Wednesday, the first day of school (in Old Lyme at least).
We've all heard that 80% of success is just showing up... well, this meeting wasn't scheduled for us to succeed.
I can't tell you the number of people over the last few days - press, public, elected officials - who've told me they can't come. And these are the people who have otherwise always shown up, who have taken the time to meet with us, who stood out in the cold and the rain on May 1...
We didn't schedule the public meeting, and don't assume that someone else will show up for you... if you care about Old Lyme, about Mystic, Stonington, Old Saybrook, New London, find some way to be in that room at this meeting. When the FRA comes again, it won't be to listen...
....
August 31, 2016 at 4:30 PM at the Lyme Old Lyme High School Auditorium, 69 Lyme St. Old Lyme
You can send questions in advance to selectmansoffice@oldlyme-ct.gov
1 month ago
Cheryl Townend, Nancy Lucas Edson and 23 others like this
Ann RichI'm coming and know of at least 6 other people that are coming too. Found out about this meeting through you all on FB and the volunteers in front of the Big Y and Coffee's
1 month ago · 1Judy Willson DaviesI know this is the railroad meeting, but you don't say that in this post, just FRA - not everyone knows what that is.
1 month ago · 1Linda MarshHeard from my manager at Coldwell Banker. Unfortunately I am in Florida or I would be there for sure. Once again not much notice for this meeting.
1 month ago · 3Mary RemillardThat's a good sized auditorium!
1 month agoChristian Peltenburg-BrechneffI am in new York....
1 month agoStephen MooreJust follows the pattern of their prior 'communication' and 'reaching out' Make things as difficult, and as little notice as possible. Halls and parking lots will be full of kids, athletic practices have already started. Hope Blumenthal and Courtney put the screws to these guys.
1 month ago · 2Eleanor RobinsonI am coming.
4 weeks ago · 2
Conrad Seifert, Erica Zapatka and 15 others like this
SECoasta win for Old Lyme. A win for every community in southeastern Connecticut.
5 days agoComment on Facebook