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Hartford – State Representative Bill Buckbee (R-67) has proposed legislation that would expand rail lines to reach New Milford. Currently, there are no commuter rail lines immediately available to the municipality.

“This has been the talk of the town for years,” explained Buckbee in regard to his proposal. “It just makes sense to have commuter rail lines reach into New Milford based on our location. We have several commuters that would immediately benefit from easier access to rail, instead of having to park at railroad stations along the Metro-North line. Additionally, this would encourage folks to explore what New Milford has to offer.”

The bill, House Bill 5302 – AN ACT CONCERNING AN EXPANSION OF COMMUTER RAIL LINES TO THE TOWN OF NEW MILFORD, has been referred to the state legislature’s Transportation Committee. If passed, the bill would require the state Department of Transportation (DOT) to expand rail lines to New Milford.

“There are clear economic gains to be made when the rail expansion is implemented,” Buckbee went on to say. “Increases traffic to New Milford’s historic and vibrant downtown is essential and a great opportunity for our local business owners. I believe that the expansion should be made a priority when considering such improvements.”

Buckbee is hopeful the committee will hear the proposal at a Public Hearing. The bill will be considered by the Transportation Committee in the coming weeks.

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