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The Catskill Mountain Railroad (CMRR) has announced plans to introduce a new trolley bus service as part of its tourist train operations. The proposed trolley would connect the Ashokan Express rail shuttle, which is expected to run every two hours from Kingston Plaza to the new West Hurley Woodstock Train Station at the intersection of Route 28 and Zena Road. The trolley would make stops in Woodstock and West Hurley, providing tourists with access to local attractions and businesses.
The CMRR's plan is contingent on receiving approval from Ulster County to extend the rail line and construct the new train station. If approved, the station would be the first full-sized train station built in Ulster County in over a century, replacing the old West Hurley station that was demolished in 1967. The new station would feature amenities such as indoor bathrooms, an event space, commercial space for bike rentals and repairs, and food and drink concessions.
According to News10, the trolley service would be modeled after the Kaaterskill Trolley, which operates in Greene County. The trolley would allow passengers to explore local restaurants and stores, with bike racks available for cyclists.
The project has already secured a $667,000 grant from the New York State Department of Transportation, and additional funding is being sought through other grants and donations. If the county approves the project, construction of the station could begin within two years. Mid Hudson News reports that the project would not require county funding.