MDOT is planning commuter bus route to connect Portland and Lewiston-Auburn
The Maine Department of Transportation is looking to try out a commuter bus service between Portland and Lewiston-Auburn.
MDOT is seeking bids from companies to provide the service for at least two years, with a goal of beginning service before July.
A department report says the pilot bus service would answer the increasing demand for public transportation in the Portland and Lewiston-Auburn regions due to growth in jobs, tourism and new residents.
The focus of the new transportation system is to better serve daily round-trip commutes, connections to the Downeaster rail service and intercity bus routes in Portland. It will also be open to other travelers, including students, shoppers and those seeking medical care.
The study created by MDOT and stakeholders last year identified a preferred alternate route that includes stops at Monument Square and the Portland Transportation Center in Portland; Bates College and the Oak Street Bus Station in Lewiston; and the Auburn Transportation Center at Great Falls Plaza and the Park & Ride Lot at Maine Turnpike Exit 75 in Auburn.
Service will be provided from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekends. According to the planning study, bidders may propose variations on the recommended route, schedule and stops.
A baseline one-way fare would be in the $6-$12 range, which is in line with other services around Maine and the rest of New England, according to MDOT. Annual operating costs are expected to range from $1.9 million to $2.1 million per year.
MaineDOT plans to fund this pilot directly using state funds while exploring options for permanent funding sources should the program be successful.
Most Recent
Most Recent
0 Comments