Plans For 'Fast Track' Rail Service From Danbury To NYC Chugging Along

DANBURY, CT — A plan to establish a "fast track" to New York City from downtown Danbury is chugging forward.

A $2 million grant to create an environmental impact statement to study the reactivation of the old Maybrook line from downtown Danbury to the Southeast train station in New York was approved in the U.S. House this week.

The Maybrook line, owned by Metro North, opened in 1889 and served as a popular carrier for both people and freight. Usage waxed and waned until 1993, when virtually all its traffic ceased.

The funding for the environmental study was one of seven funding projects which 5th District Congresswoman Jehana Hayes has championed.

"Once considered a long shot, a direct passenger rail line to New York City via the MTA Harlem line is becoming more and more of a reality because of the tremendous support seen across our city," Danbury Mayor Dean Esposito said in a statement. "This will help revitalize our downtown, and create an even better place for residents to live, work and raise a family."