» Vermont Threatens Changes To Ethan Allen Express

Just as Governor Paterson announced his intent to cut support for the Adirondack, Vermont’s Agency of Transportation submitted an austerity budget to the state legislature’s Joint Fiscal Committee that proposed slashing the state’s $1.5 million Ethan Allen operating subsidy. The proposal included replacing the train north of Albany-Rensselaer, NY with a Thruway bus that would run all the way to Burlington, VT, with stops including Bennington and Rutland. The bus service would be a placeholder until funding can be secured to restore passenger train service between Rutland and Burlington on the Vermont Railway.

After holding a hearing on December 17, the Joint Fiscal Committee unanimously rejected the proposal to eliminate the Ethan Allen. The Committee felt this action needed to be put on hold and a decision made when the full Vermont legislature returns to session in January. Thus, the future of the Ethan Allen Express remains unsure.