MBTA capital investment plan will put $10.3B into the agency’s network over fiscal years 2027 to 2031. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority board approved the CIP unanimously on May 28, with 660 capital projects included.

MBTA capital investment plan sets $10.3B agenda
Photo: Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority

MBTA capital investment plan targets core system needs

The five-year program is built around regular maintenance, modernization projects and better service. In its official announcement, MBTA says the plan is meant to support projects that deliver meaningful benefits, improve service and strengthen safety for today’s riders and future generations.

“We are strategically planning to deliver capital projects that deliver meaningful benefits, improve service, and ensure safety to meet and exceed the needs of today and future generations,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng in a press release.

Major rapid transit projects listed in the program include upgrades to signal and power infrastructure, passenger accessibility improvements, station modernization and track improvements, including programmed diversions and track renewals.

Regional rail modernization moves ahead

Regional rail modernization is another focus of the $10.3B capital investment. MBTA plans to replace its oldest locomotives with battery-electric and low-emissions diesel locomotives, while the remaining single-level coaches are due to be replaced with bi-level coaches.

The plan also covers a six-track electrified layover facility at Boston’s Widett Circle. Another major item is the replacement of the North Station Draw One Bridge, a structure dating back to the 1930s; Railway Supply previously covered the bridge replacement as part of MBTA’s wider rail infrastructure modernization.

The full CIP is available for public review through the MassDOT Current Capital Investment Plan page. It includes the planning overview, the full list of capital projects and anticipated funding levels. The plan is scheduled to take effect on July 1.