Few issues in the past 30 years have aroused locals’ emotions and sustained their attentions as much as the Greenbush rail line has. Now that the train is finally here, activists on both sides of the tracks -- reflect on the often bitter, sometimes productive political fight and look forward to a future with the train rolling through their towns.

Gilman Wilder, Scituate

Wilder, a former Scituate selectman and North Scituate business owner, was among the earliest Greenbush opponents.

“It cost a mountain of money, which I didn’t think was necessary. I can’t see people wanting to get out of their damn cars.”

John Bewick, Hingham

In 2001, Bewick and his wife, Martha, helped found an anti-train group that pushed state transportation officials to consider alternative mass transit, including increased boat service and new bus routes.

“I think this is a great example of fiscal irresponsibility and mismanagement. It’s added $25 million annually in state debt, and extending the Blue Line to Lynn would have serviced twice as many riders.”

Jacqueline Whipple, Cohasset

Whipple and her husband moved to Cohasset in 1958 specifically because the train ran through the town, later joining the pro-train group Cohasset Committee for Commuter Rail.

“This train is going to be very, very important for senior citizens trying to get into Boston.”

JoAnn Fitzpatrick,
Boston

Before retiring in June after 20 years on the job, Fitzpatrick helmed The Patriot Ledger editorial page, writing more than 100 columns extolling the virtues of a restored coastal commuter rail line.

“I believe this is the most significant issue I wrote about in my career. It’s just going to be an enormous asset for the South Shore.”

Chartis (Langmaid) Tebbetts, Cohasset

Tebbetts is active in Cohasset politics, having served on the school committee and Cohasset Housing Partnership, run unsuccessfully for the state Senate and been president of the town’s League of Women Voters.

“I’m just hoping people can put behind all their personal reservations on the train and work together to make it successful.”