HARTFORD- In the Transportation Committee, State Representative Greg Howard (R-43) testified in favor of a proposal to add additional stops to Shore Line East (SLE) into Mystic.

The proposed legislation, SB-714 An Act Restoring Service on The Shore Line East Rail Line which would require the Department of Transportation to fully restore service on the Shore Line East rail line. The proposal would also see service restored but expanded to include service to Mystic, Connecticut.

Rep. Greg Howard said, “Adding stops on Shore Line East will bring thousands more people to Mystic, helping the region’s economy and fostering a greater love for Connecticut, without having our downtown Mystic streets completely congested with traffic.”

The Shore Line East Riders Advocacy Group submitted testimony stating “The SLE train line is a tremendous benefit to those on the Shoreline and beyond. Riders come from with CT and from other states to visit and enjoy all our state has to offer, especially in the southeastern part of the state that the train line serves. A consistent train line will build strong ridership. Strong ridership will build vibrant tourism. Vibrant tourism will build a strong economy.”

Also in support of the proposal is the Connecticut Tourism Coalition saying it would be a positive impact for Connecticut.