New study outlines options for expanded rail service

Mass. (WWLP) – From North Adams to Greenfield to Boston in under three hours! It has been almost 30 years since passenger trains ran between western and eastern Massachusetts. A new study shows options for what expanded rail service would look like in western Massachusetts.

The Northern Tier Line study which was released by the Department of Transportation takes a look at six potential passenger rail options to restore public transportation services spanning across the state.

This project is estimated to cost up to 2.96 billion dollars and take 12 years to complete. This study is subject to a public comment period until October 12th and is intended to expand housing and employment options for those who could rely on its service. The rail service would also cut down on car emissions and crashes.

All but one potential plan feature diesel-powered trains, despite recent efforts by the state to cut emissions and one is estimated to draw up to 300,000 riders annually. The two potential plans that have the highest estimated rider count; the Electrified Service plan and the Full Local Service plan also have the highest estimated cost, but this could be offset by low yearly maintenance per rider.

The Full Local Service plan would include stops in Shelburne Falls, Athol and Gardener, while the Electrified Service Plan would stop in North Adams, Greenfield, and Athol. It was not without some bumps in the track. The study did find challenges both with securing federal grants and paying off initial investments. It also identified that the state government may need to allocate funds to refurbish existing infrastructure.

In addition to the Northern Tier route there is a West-East line in the works that would connect Pittsfield and Springfield to Boston which is scheduled to be completed in 2027.

Olivia Ray is a State House reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since April 2024. Follow Olivia on X @OliviaRayMedia and view her bio to see more of her work.

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