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Maine Takes Another Step in Building Amtrak Layover Facility

BRUNSWICK, Maine — Maine environmental regulators have approved the last remaining permit needed for construction to start on a nearly $13 million layover facility for Amtrak trains in Brunswick.

The Portland Press Herald reports that Maine Department of Environmental Protection awarded the permit Tuesday.

Regulators found that existing berms, ditches and adjacent railroad tracks would prevent stormwater runoff from flowing toward abutters. They also found that the site's groundwater generally flows toward a nearby stream, not a nearby neighborhood.

The Brunswick West Neighborhood Coalition, which opposes the project, says it will appeal.

Residents say the 655-foot-by-70-foot building and train activity would pollute the groundwater and air and make too much noise.

The facility was proposed in 2012 when Amtrak's Downeaster service was extended to Brunswick.