AUGUSTA - The Legislature gave unanimous initial approval Tuesday to a measure from Rep. Art Bell, D-Yarmouth, that would help determine the untapped potential of dormant rail corridors across the state.
As amended, LD 1370 would direct the Maine Department of Transportation (DOT) to develop and utilize an active transportation plan to evaluate potential uses for dormant, state-owned rail corridors. The DOT would then submit a report to the Legislature's Joint Standing Committee on Transportation for further action.
"My vision for this bill is to help bring together a deeply felt need for connection and outdoor recreation with underutilized public space, namely, miles of abandoned state-owned rail corridors, lying fallow," said Bell. "My hope is that this study will move us closer to capitalizing on this unused public land and the development of an interconnected trail network for outdoor recreactional use that truly serves as a public good."
The measure faces further votes in the House and Senate.
Bell is serving his first term in the Maine House and represents District 47, Chebeague Island, Long Island and Yarmouth. He serves on the Legislature's Joint Standing Committee on Environment and Natural Resources.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Bell], c .812-1111