New Canaan Trains - Part 2

Governor Rell heard the overwhelming negative response regarding shutting down the New Canaan train line and issued the following press release:

“I can understand the confusion and questions that people have so let me be quite clear: I do not and will not support cuts to the Metro-North branch lines – Danbury, Waterbury or New Canaan. In fact, no one has made more of a commitment to commuter rail than I have and I will continue to forcefully advocate for rail until I leave office in January.

“The list of cuts was prepared by the Office of Policy and Management as a menu of options for the Legislature to consider as a way to fill a funding hole in the winter home heating assistance program for seniors and low-income families. In hindsight, I can see how inclusion of this item on the list sent the wrong message.

“Let me reiterate that the suggested rail cuts are not cuts that I approve or will support. The Legislature has to own up to its responsibility to find funding for the home heating assistance program. I am determined that no one will go without heat this season. As Governor, I stand ready to work with the Legislature.”