$2 million for Bethel Train Station

State Rep. David Scribner, R-107, and State Sen. Toni Boucher, R-26th, today voted in favor of a bill before the Legislature’s Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee, that includes $2 million for upgrades to the Bethel Train Station. Senate Bill 834, An Act Concerning The Authorization Of Special Tax Obligation Bonds Of The State For Certain Transportation Purposes, now goes to the State Senate for consideration.

Rep. Scribner and Sen. Boucher serve as Ranking Members (Republican Leaders) of the Legislature’s Transportation Committee. Rep. Scribner also serves as Ranking Member of the Transportation Bonding Subcommittee and in August 2008, hosted a tour of the station with then-newly-appointed Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Joseph F. Marie to illustrate the need for expansion. A primary component of the upgrades will be expanding parking facilities at the station.

“I’m thrilled we were able to ensure that upgrades to the Bethel Train Station will remain a priority in Connecticut’s transportation plans moving forward,” said Rep. Scribner. “The increased use of the Danbury-Norwalk rail line has seen more residents from throughout our area boarding in Bethel and the station, particularly its parking area, is no longer adequate for the amount of patrons. Upgrades will both encourage use of mass transit and can help enhance local economic development.”

“During my many visits to the train station, conversations with commuters, and riding the trains myself, it became apparent to me that the Bethel Train Station really needs more parking,” said Sen. Boucher. “I am pleased to be working closely with colleagues in the House and Senate to address the concerns of those who depend on our trains and use this train station. The upgrades to the Bethel Train Station, along with other planned improvements to the Norwalk/Danbury Branch Line, will greatly benefit our mass transit system.”