MaineDOT Office of Passenger Transportation – Augusta, ME

MaineDOT Office of Passenger Transportation

Agency Overview

The Office of Passenger Transportation, a key division within the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT), is responsible for overseeing and developing the state’s public travel infrastructure. Operating from the main departmental headquarters on Child Street, this office manages the programs that connect Maine’s communities through means other than personal automobiles. Its scope includes the administration of the Maine State Ferry Service, support for regional bus transit systems, and the coordination of passenger rail initiatives. The office works to ensure that residents and visitors have access to safe, reliable, and efficient transportation options across the state’s diverse geography.

Key Services and Programs

The office focuses on several critical areas of public mobility:

• Maine State Ferry Service: Oversight of the state-run ferry system that serves six island communities, including Islesboro, Vinalhaven, and North Haven.
• Public Transit Support: Providing funding and strategic planning for local and regional bus services, such as the Kennebec Explorer and intercity lines.
• Passenger Rail: Managing state interests in the Downeaster service and exploring future rail expansion projects.
• Active Transportation: Promoting bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure as part of an integrated transit network.

Location and Contact

The administrative offices are located in the MaineDOT headquarters at 24 Child Street. While this is an administrative hub for planning and policy, it is not a ticketing office for daily travel. Travelers looking for ferry tickets or bus schedules should contact the specific service providers or visit the ferry terminals directly. The headquarters is accessible to the public for administrative inquiries during standard business hours.