I’ve noticed that there is some work going on near the Bath station, it looked as if they were ripping out the last two remaining sidings, just east of the station. I haven’t had a chance to go check it out, only got a quick peek at it while going over the Bath overpass on Rte. 1.
Are they removing these sidings, or are they renovating them? It almost looks as though the B.I.W. North-end dirt parking lot is going to expand to where these sidings were. Unfortunately, to be realistic[:(], I would almost think they ARE being ripped out(but one can always hope not), as they are almost never used[:(].
On the lighter side I did see that the North Street grade crossing has a new pair of crossing gates[:D], I’m assuming they are from “Operation Lifesaver” funding[bow]. I also heard that the New Meadows Road grade crossing also got a new pair of crossing gates as well, although I haven’t been by to see for myself. Hmmmmm…guess I’ll have to go out for a little ride to see for myself[;)].
I went to check things out, and I think I’ve figured it out, it looks like they will be renovating at least one siding, as the turnouts are still there for that first siding. Also there are two large piles of new wooden ties sitting nearby(unless those will be used on the Carlton bridge, which is getting sandblasted and re-painted), I’m guessing those are for the “new” siding.
Yes, there are new, completed crossing gates at New Meadows Road grade crossing. Also new crossing gates at York Street and North Street, although the ones at York and North Streets still need the arms attatched to make them complete. Please let me know if I’m wrong about the siding near Bath Station.
fuzzybroken, the Maine Central owned and operated these tracks until the mid '80s('85 I think) when the State of Maine took over ownership of the Brunswick to Rockland branch. It has been leased by the Maine Coast RR('86 to '99 I believe), Safe Handling Rail Inc.(2000-2003), and the Maine Eastern(current lease holder)