There have been some topics on Waterbury service, but I thought I'd start a new one on this, as there have been some comments in the M8 thread, and a separate
thread (link) on GCT thru trains, but nothing right on point.
I know there's some strong feelings on this branch, so I thought I'd post these questions:
-There's been no serious recent proposal to end service on this line, but how about expansion? There's the HRRC connection at Derby; I'm fairly sure traffic is light due to the decrease in freight on the Waterbury. Would some limited service be in order to avoid traffic on 8 and backroads to Waterbury/I-95? I know there's no studies right now for this, but there are some active state legislators (even with no money in the pot, there's a lot of talk).
-There has been talk and studies of extension to Bristol and the NHHS line with service to Hartford. Who would operate? Would this be an extension of the "Naugy" or a separate operation with W'Bury serving only as the terminus of two separate branches, or an off-shoot of NHHS?
-Since there are no thru-trains to GCT, and really, no need for them, would it make sense for CDOT (who currently only contract operation) to assume operation of the branch in light of studies for Hartford, even down the "line", pun intended? I mean, actually set up their own rail operations? Could they run service down the branch to both New Haven and Stamford, solely in state? I'm thinking along the lines of the SLE service (Amtrak operated east of New Haven only). MNRR would operate the trains beyond Devon similar to SLE (satisfying ACRE?).
-Would service via the wye to New Haven make sense? That might take some cars off 8 and 95.
Thoughts?