Forum for rail riders

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NAUGATUCK — The Connecticut Commuter Rail Council will hold a commuter forum for Waterbury branch riders on Sept. 2 at 7 p.m. at the offices of the Naugatuck Historical Society at the Naugatuck Train Station, 195 Water St.

Riders will be able to ask questions and talk with officials from the state Department of Transportation and Metro-North Railroad.

The agenda includes discussion of branch projects, including passing sidings and Positive Train Control implementation. Also, there will be updates on the state Department of Transportation’s fleet and Devon Transfer, which is scheduled to end in October, along with discussions about scheduling and station conditions.

Connecticut Commuter Rail Council Vice Chairman Jim Gildea said the last year has been “an exciting time” for the branch, with the restoration of an express train to Stamford, increased weekend service, work on passing sidings and the DOT’s purchase of four diesels.

“This work is a precursor to the ability to add real additional service during critical peak periods and will allow commuters and cities to take advantage of commuting alternatives along the branch,” Gildea said.