Trains and States Shake Hands: New Deal Keeps Connecticut Tracks Rolling
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Notice
Summary
Providence and Worcester Railroad Company is teaming up with the State of Connecticut to keep running about 17 miles of local train tracks called the Middletown Cluster. They’re swapping out an old deal for a fresh operating agreement, so P&W can keep chugging along smoothly. This change won’t cost extra or cause delays—it’s just a new handshake to keep the trains rolling!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
20-Year Agreement Keeps Trains Running
The Providence and Worcester Railroad will operate about 16.84 miles of the Middletown Cluster in Connecticut under a new operating agreement for a 20-year term with up to two 10-year extensions. This new agreement replaces the prior operating agreement and will take effect on the exemption's effective date as set by the Board.
Shorter Labor Notice Possible
If you work on the affected rail lines in Connecticut, federal rules (49 CFR 1150.42(e)) normally require your employer to post a 60-day advance notice before this exemption becomes effective because P&W's revenues exceed $5,000,000. P&W has asked the Board to waive that 60-day requirement so the exemption could become effective 30 days after the verified notice was filed; the Board will decide the waiver and set the effective date. Petitions for stay must be filed by December 5, 2025.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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