Last month I learned that there is vastly less train service between my home in New London and my work in New Haven: two very early morning trains to New Haven, and one returning at the end of the afternoon.

The problem is made worse by Amtrak’s refusal now to cross honor multi-ride passes, a practice which was negotiated with the state Department of Transportation, I believe, in recognition of the fewer trains east of the river — what with the bridge closings to accommodate recreational boaters. The reason for the discontinuance was said to be "Covid related." Nonsense. Amtrak is taking advantage of the crisis to change its terms of service.

This in no way promotes public transportation. It is not helpful to force more of us onto overstrained highways. It is environmentally unsound.

The current state of affairs makes it difficult to make plans to return to work. It rather feels like a big step backward, environmentally, economically. It demonstrates a lack of interest, of commitment, to southeastern Connecticut, on the part of state transportation planners and Amtrak.

Lourdes O’Neil Haynes

New London