With Maine Eastern Railroad's confirmation of Friday to Sunday service returning this summer and fall, the Newcastle Board of Selectmen has announced its backing of a further transportation plan.

The board put its support behind option one, which was formulated by the unofficial train committee.

Option one includes a daily seasonal trolley around the Twin Villages, with a shuttle service to the Boothbay region and Wiscasset.

Option two removes Wiscasset from that loop, while option three would just take passengers from Depot Street in Newcastle to downtown Damariscotta. Option four would be no trolley service and passengers would need to call for service.

The first two options are the top choice because either would relieve traffic in downtown areas and along Routes 1 and 27. It could also alleviate parking problems in Damariscotta.

The weekend service, which is expected to bring even more traffic to the area, will begin July 4 and end in October. The train will run from Rockland to Brunswick with the option to purchase tickets to continue on to Boston.

Future plans include Newcastle's attempt to secure ownership of the depot building, which is privately owned, but situated on state land.

Funding is expected to come from various sources including grants, personal contributions to businesses, who could use the depot and trolley service for advertising.

The Newcastle Board of Selectmen appointed a depot committee. Anyone interested in trains or serving on a subcommittee should contact Interim Town Administrator Lynn Maloney at 207-563-3441 or townadmin@newcastlemaine.us.