by calaisbranch
This is also off topic with the proposed abandonment, but why do so many on here act like PAR/ST(flavor of the week) is the answer for MMA to interchnage with. Sure, PAR is there and offers some of the best connections, but it seems like their own trains are parked or outlawed just as much as they are operating. Besides the rehabs down south due to Amtrak's Downeaster and the most recent NS involvements, that whole physical plant of their's would still be deplorable. Look at the "main" out of Northern Maine Junction. This was the MEC show piece north of Portland, and was the nucleus for the entire Eastern Division. Today, it's practically embarrassing. 10mph zones all over the line. Granted, only two real mainline symbols roll over it daily, but lines such as SLR and even MMA make that of PAR look pathetic. How does anyone expect PAR to be able to offer DEPENDABLE interchange anywhere when their rail lines are the laughing stock of the industry? Personally, I would look for any other option, too, before I would give into using PAR as a common choice.