By implementing this Plan, Maine will strengthen its alternative transportation system to the potential benefit of other passenger transportation users, as well as freight carriers. But, by remaining focused on the tourist component, and a chartered service approach, this will be an alternative system that maximizes private investment. The concept of packaged, chartered tours on alternative modes of transportation is not new in Maine. However, the potential goes far beyond current efforts as the opportunities to develop and integrate all the travel options become apparent. This is an opportunity to market the State of Maine as a travel destination, where the travel experience becomes the vacation.
Many options exist for constructing an alternative transportation system for tourism.
These options involve modal selections, the designation of intermodal hubs and centers, the phasing of development, the identification of operators and much more. At this moment, flexibility in system design is a virtue, as issues of public support, financing, permitting and other concerns are being defined. After considerable study, planning and debate, the following recommendations for developing this system are offered. Private rail operations are envisioned on State-owned rail lines, including the Belfast and Moosehead, the Rockland Branch, the Augusta Branch, the Calais Branch, and the Mountain Division. Private rail on private track is possible with the Bangor and Aroostook Railroad and the St. Lawrence and Atlantic Railroad .