Haskell Announces Legislation To Improve Service On Metro-North

BETHEL, CT — State Senator Will Haskell (D-26) announced that he has submitted a new bill to the General Assembly intended to improve Metro-North train service by providing wireless internet access on trains operating on the New Haven line.

“The New Haven Line supports near-record numbers of riders today, with more than 40 million total trips taken in 2017, and yet the experience of riding the train has deteriorated in several important ways,” said Haskell. “From Amtrak to Megabus to most commercial airlines, travelers have come to expect Wi-Fi while commuting. On one of the busiest commuter networks in the country, it’s crucial that we make the daily trip economically efficient for those traveling to and from work. This bill would provide commuters an opportunity to work while riding the train.”

Senate Bill No. 163, “An Act Concerning Wireless Internet Availability on the New Haven Line of the Metro-North Commuter Railroad,” would require Metro-North to provide high-quality, complimentary wireless internet access to riders of the New Haven train line.

“When Boston’s commuter rail service supports Wi-Fi service, Connecticut is placed at a competitive disadvantage. Employers tell us that improving our outdated infrastructure is crucial to revitalizing our economy. Realtors tell us that potential buyers look closely at the commuting experience before investing in our community. We cannot afford to allow Metro-North to remain stuck in the past,” said Haskell.

Haskell represents parts of Bethel, New Canaan, Redding, Ridgefield, Weston, Westport, and Wilton.

Photo: Harry Zernike/Patch