Dive Brief:
- The Massachusetts Department of Transportation released its final report Nov. 27 on the potential for establishing east-west passenger rail service from Boston to Greenfield and North Adams, Massachusetts, across the northern part of the state.
- The report builds on a 2021 MassDOT study, along with efforts from Gov. Maura Healey and the state Legislature, to quickly move forward with plans for improved passenger rail transportation serving communities beyond the state’s larger cities.
- The 112-page report outlines six potential options. It recommends further research and planning on the rail choices while also looking at lower-cost alternatives such as intercity bus service.
Dive Insight:
Travelers along the northern tier of Massachusetts are mostly limited to state highway Route 2 and some intercity bus service. State, regional and local leaders, along with regional transit agencies and other stakeholders, joined with MassDOT to support its look at expanding transportation options while meeting other goals, which include increasing transportation equity, supporting economic development and reducing transportation impacts on public health and the environment.
The report lays out alternatives that include lower- and higher-investment options. Projected capital costs range from less than $900 million to over $2.9 billion, with estimated annual ridership ranging from nearly 66,000 to more than 304,000. For all options, the report assumes a five-train-per-day schedule.
Amtrak and freight railroad CSX cooperated with MassDOT in reviewing the existing rail infrastructure for improvements that would be necessary to introduce passenger service west of Fitchburg, Massachusetts, which is already served by Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority commuter trains.
The report expects it will take 12 years from the time federal planning funds are secured to the start of passenger service. With the exception of the most expensive option, which includes electrification of the line, trains would be powered by diesel locomotives.
U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Mass., last year proposed building a new east-west high-speed rail line, which is not included in the MassDOT report.
