New Maine Commuter Bus Route Will Link Lewiston-Auburn And Portland

As the need for quality reliable public transportation expands in Maine, so too does Maine DOT's plan to make it easier to access for Mainers in metropolitan areas. While both Lewiston-Auburn and Portland have their own public transportation bus service, there is currently no public bus service that connects the two densely populated areas- but that's about to change.

According to an article published by Maine Biz, the Maine Department of Transportation is launching a two-year pilot program that will connect Lewiston and Portland. The plan it to provide bus service on weekdays from 5a-11p and on weekends from 6a-9:30p.

However, since the Maine Department of Transportation is still in the process of taking bids from bus transportation companies, they are open to those times being modified if the transit company that they go with has a better idea.

Additionally, the MDOT is also open to the stops in both cities being modified. However, at least for now, the plan is that the public buses would service Monument Square and the Portland Transportation Center in Portland, and Bates College, Auburn Transportation Center, Oak Street Bus Station and the Auburn Park & Ride in Lewiston-Auburn.

The Maine Department of transportation, which says this new route is needed to accommodate job commuters, students, medical patients and tourists, is going to use existing funds from the state of Maine, though if the program is successful they will look into alternate funding.

MDOT says the program, which is in its pilot planning stage, is expected to cost anywhere from $1.9 - $2.3 million per year to operate. The program, which is still excepting bids, is expected to launch sometime in July.