Post by Logan on Apr 16, 2016 8:55:38 GMT -6
ESSEX JUNCTION — A proposal to allow rail passengers to go through customs in Montreal before crossing into the United States would be a boon for passenger rail in New England, said officials gathered outside Vermont’s busiest Amtrak station Friday.
Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., was joined by state and Canadian officials at the Essex Junction station, where they highlighted the progress in the United States toward expanding the use of “preclearance,” which allows travelers to go through U.S. customs at their Canadian point of departure.
Leahy has been working with Vermont transportation officials for years to restore rail service between the northwestern Vermont city of St. Albans and Montreal, but says preclearance must be available before that can happen.
Transportation Secretary Chris Cole said if an Amtrak train can reach Montreal through Vermont, it will help connect the New England states to all of Canada and at the same time make it easier for people to travel into the U.S. from Canada.
Read more: www.rutlandherald.com/article/20160416/NEWS03/160419647
Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., was joined by state and Canadian officials at the Essex Junction station, where they highlighted the progress in the United States toward expanding the use of “preclearance,” which allows travelers to go through U.S. customs at their Canadian point of departure.
Leahy has been working with Vermont transportation officials for years to restore rail service between the northwestern Vermont city of St. Albans and Montreal, but says preclearance must be available before that can happen.
Transportation Secretary Chris Cole said if an Amtrak train can reach Montreal through Vermont, it will help connect the New England states to all of Canada and at the same time make it easier for people to travel into the U.S. from Canada.
Read more: www.rutlandherald.com/article/20160416/NEWS03/160419647