Massachusetts lands federal rail dollars prospective federal funding for a high-speed train project in the state that administration officials say could generate significant economic development and job-creation. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Massachusetts Advances West-East Rail with Federal Support
Amtrak rail services in Boston, Loco Steve

Massachusetts receives $3.5m in funding for West-East Rail project. This funding furthers planning for a Boston – Albany passenger service that will provide enhanced travel benefits, alleviate congestion and increase economic development across the State.

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The funding was provided to the New York State Department of Transportation by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) through its Corridor Identification and Development Program. The grant will fund the development of a Service Development Plan (SDP) specifying operational, infrastructure, and financial needs of the corridor.

Next Steps to Plan the Expansion of Rail in Massachusetts

The SDP should be a study to consider intercity passenger service over the Boston–Albany corridor. This will involve plans on how it will run, what infrastructure it will require, and community consultations which will involve the community having a say about what gets built.

Governor Maura Healey expressed strong support, stating:

“We are full steam ahead on building West-East Rail, and this latest federal funding win brings us one step closer to delivering this for Massachusetts.”

Beyond the Shimmer: A Commonwealth and a Plan for Passenger Rail

This investment adds to previous federal investments focused on improving rail services. In 2023, $108 million was funded for infrastructure upgrades to increase passenger capacity from Boston to New Haven via Springfield.

There is also $37 million for design work on a track, signal and station upgrades in the vicinity of Springfield Union Station that’s funded for 2024. These projects are part of the state’s Compass Rail vision to enhance intercity rail service.

With Compass Rail, intercity services like the Vermonter, Valley Flyer and Northeast Regional will connect seamlessly to the proposed West-East Rail service, creating more efficient travel across the region.

Source: railway-news.com

What is the purpose of the Massachusetts West-East Rail?

The West-East Rail seeks to connect Boston and Albany, increase transportation options, decrease traffic and stimulate Massachusetts’ economy.

How will the rail project be financed with federal funding?

The federal grant of $3.5 million is contributing toward on-ground feasibility studies, operational planning, infrastructure needs and public consultation to ensure projects are implemented effectively.

What are some of the state’s other rail-related initiatives?

In addition to the West-East Rail, Massachusetts is investing in projects like Compass Rail to improve routes like the Vermonter and Valley Flyer, and is improving intercity rail access statewide.

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