MONTREAL - A proposed summertime overnight train service between Montreal, the Maine coast and Boston could become reality if it receives the green light from railway lines within two months.
The train service, promoted by former La Prairie PQ MNA Francois Rebello, would come complete with lounges and sleeping facilities.
Rebello, who ran unsuccessfully for the CAQ in the last provincial election, is trying to organize the train service that would travel along freight rails at slow speeds topping out at 35 mph (56 kmh).
According to the Portland Press Herald, Rebello pitched the plan to about 30 interested parties in Montreal Thursday, several of whom made $250 contributions to the cause.
The train would run from June to September and cost $150 for a one-way trip. It would leave Montreal at 6 p.m. and make a series of stops, including one in Portland at 6 a.m. and a final stop in Boston at 8:30 a.m. with the same overnight route offered on the way back.
The project requires the blessings of the track owners, Canadian National Railway, St. Lawrence & Atlantic Railroad, Pan Am Railways and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.
Some train industry officials interviewed by the Press Herald doubted that the permissions would be forthcoming, citing high insurance costs and two hour delays at customs, although Rebello said that the process would more likely take only one hour.
Two years ago Rebello promoted a similar plan for an overnight train between Montreal and New York City.
