Just as train service between Rutland and Albany, New York was spared from state budget cuts, a plan to expand service to Burlington is gaining support.
Officials say passenger rail service between Burlington and New York City would generate an explosion of tourism to the area.
The plan would re-establish passenger rail service from Burlington to Rutland, which already is already linked with New York City through the Ethan Allen line.
The missing gap is between Vergennes and Rutland. State Rail Director Robert Ide says the 45-mile section needs between $60- 80 million in upgrades, which he hopes could be funded by federal stimulus money.