Press Release

Welch Joins Amtrak to Celebrate New Brattleboro Station Groundbreaking Funded by Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

Jun 24, 2024

BRATTLEBORO, VT – Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) joined Amtrak and members of the community for a groundbreaking ceremony to inaugurate the start of construction for platform upgrades and improvements to the new Brattleboro Station, which will include the state’s first ever level, accessible, platform.

“Everyone deserves to have a safe, comfortable, accessible experience while riding on Amtrak. I’m thrilled to see funds we helped pass through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provide the Brattleboro station with important improvements to enhance passenger experience for all travelers,” said Senator Welch. “This project will transform the Brattleboro rail station and marks a major investment in getting Vermont—and America—back on track.”

View photos from the event below:

The new Brattleboro Station will be home to Vermont’s first level platform. It will have a new electric snow melt system, lighting, railings, detectable warning edge and signage. In addition, there will be two ramps and two sets of stairs leading from the parking level up to the new platform. The new station will include a waiting room with seating and additional standing room, a new ADA-accessible single-occupant restroom and a covered, outdoor waiting area with benches. Parking lot improvements will include accessible parking spaces and a bike shelter. An art installation by Brattleboro Words Trail will welcome travelers.

Since President Biden signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act into law over $1.8 billion in funding for infrastructure projects has been announced for Vermont, supporting 125 projects across the Green Mountain State. That includes $77.8 million in transit funding for Vermont.

Senator Welch was joined by Dr. David Handera, Amtrak Vice President of Accessibility, Stations and Facilities; a representative for Senator Bernie Sanders; Vermont State Representative Mollie Burke; Vermont State Senator Wendy Harrison; Charles Hunter, Assistant Vice President of Government Affairs for Genesee & Wyoming Railroad Services, Inc.; and Brattleboro Selectboard Chair Daniel Quipp.