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The Amtrak Downeaster arrives in Portland. (Staff photo by Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer)

The operator of the Amtrak Downeaster is hosting a pair of open houses next week, soliciting community feedback on the future of the rail line’s service.

The events will include an update on the new station proposed for Portland, a presentation highlighting recently completed projects and conversations about potential new investments and service changes, the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority said in a Wednesday announcement.

“It’s a chance for the community to help design a passenger rail system that works better for everyone,” Patricia Quinn, the authority’s executive director, said in a written statement. Quinn will give presentations at both events.

Open houses will be held:

  • In Freeport, April 29 from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Freeport Community Center
  • In Saco, April 30 from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Dyer Library’s Deering Room

The rail authority is seeking information from attendees on how and when they travel the Downeaster and any ideas they may have on service improvements “between Brunswick and Boston and beyond,” it said.

The open houses will also describe early concepts for expanded passenger rail service around Greater Portland.

The events are being held as part of the rail authority’s ongoing Service Development Plan. More information on that plan can be found on its website.

Daniel Kool is the Portland Press Herald's cost of living reporter, covering wages, bills and the infrastructure that drives them — from roads, to the state's electric grid to the global supply chains...

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