Golden railroad spikes marked the progress of what one official called a transportation milestone – bringing the railroad back to the Lakes Region.

Supporters gathered in Standish Aug. 1 to celebrate the purchase of the last 5.2-mile section of the Mountain Division Rail line. The state now owns the whole 50-mile stretch from Fryeburg to Portland.

After speeches from state and local officials, several people got a chance to drive golden spikes into the abandoned railroad bed at the Standish boat launch.

“Every time the price of fuel goes up, rail becomes more attractive,” said Standish Town Councilor Phil Pomerleau after the ceremony.

Pomerleau said the rail line could take up to 25,000 trucks a year off area roads and open up opportunities for new businesses. He foresaw a time when sand and gravel could be transported to Portland and fuel could be transported north to Fryeburg.

The rail line could also provide passenger service.

“The whole transportation paradigm is changing,” said Maine Department of Transportation Commissioner David Cole.

Though Cole and others were optimistic for the project’s future, he acknowledged that it would still take many years and millions of dollars to complete.

Sen. Bill Diamond, D-Cumberland, drives a ceremonial golden spike at the Standish boat launch Aug. 1 to celebrate the state