I think the letter from Mr. Sirois regarding public transportation in the April 26 KJ contained some excellent points.

I get frequent Facebook posts showing pictures of Augusta dating from the late 1800s up to more modern times. Many of them show pictures of the trolley lines that once ran through the city. I’d love to see something similar to that, but using modern technology.

There seems to be a lot of foot dragging by Maine politicians when it comes to the possibility of restoring passenger rail service north of Brunswick. So why not consider passenger rail on a smaller scale?

The existing rail line north of Brunswick, through Gardiner, Hallowell, and Augusta could be upgraded and used for light rail. If a line from Brunswick to Augusta is still too much, how about light rail between Augusta and Gardiner, with a stop in Hallowell as a first step?

Hallowell seems to be a go-to destination for local folks for shopping, dining, or just sitting on the wharf and watching the Kennebec roll by. If people could hop on the light rail or trolley in Augusta, or Gardiner, they could leave their autos behind and enjoy a relaxing, short rail trip to Hallowell, or all the way to Augusta or Gardiner for work, shopping, or play.

The goal of using less fossil fuels to combat climate change is important. How many cars could be taken off the road by using light rail to get between Gardiner and Augusta, or to Hallowell? And this short route could be electrified, further reducing carbon emissions.

The rail corridor is already there. It’s not like this project would have to start from scratch. I don’t know whether the existing rails could be used or not, but I believe light rail is an idea worthy of further consideration. If this short route proves successful, then longer routes could be considered.

Mike Barron

Augusta