Train Service to Old Orchard Beach

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: James Harmon, Chamber Executive Director (207) 934-2500, jeh@oldorchardbeachmaine.com
Press Contact: Greg Burke, IMS-21 - 207-985-1766, greg@ims21.net  

RIDE AMTRAK'S “DOWNEASTER”

Old Orchard Beach: 2008 marks the 165th year since train service first began to Old Orchard Beach. Seasonal train service returned to Old Orchard Beach, Maine seven summers ago in 2002 and has been running strong ever since. From April 11 through October, the train stops ten times daily at the Beach on its route between Boston and Portland.

Old Orchard Beach’s train stop is adjacent to the NEW Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center and is just 100 yards from the beach and numerous beachfront accommodations, allowing for a car-free vacation at the beach.

“I love watching the people get off the train with beach towels and umbrellas headed for the beach,” commented James Harmon, Old Orchard Beach Chamber Executive Director. “We continue to see more and more people every year now as word gets out about how convenient, fun and economical the train is.”

Train service first began to Old Orchard Beach in 1842 and continued until the mid 1900’s, before resuming in the summer of 2002.

The recently completed Old Orchard Beach Chamber of Commerce Visitors Welcome Center houses a Visitor’s Reception and Information area, public restrooms, offices and function room for the Chamber of Commerce staff and members.

For more information on “Downeaster” rail service to Old Orchard Beach, contact Amtrak at: 1-800-USA-RAIL (800-872-7245) or visit them on the web at: www.thedowneaster.com. Or contact the Old Orchard Beach Chamber of Commerce at 207-934-2500 or their web site at www.oldorchardbeachmaine.com