Earlier this week, MassDOT issued the final report for the East-West Passenger Rail Study, which examines the potential benefits, costs, and investments necessary to connect people in Western Massachusetts communities with Central and Eastern Massachusetts using a passenger rail service that provides fast, frequent, and attractive service in a cost-effective and achievable manner.

Community leaders, stakeholders, and residents expressed a desire for such a passenger rail link to enhance multi-modal transportation options available for communities in the Commonwealth located west of Worcester. MassDOT subsequently paid for and launched this study which entailed a comprehensive civic engagement process involving members of the East-West Passenger Rail Study Advisory Committee, residents, businesses, state and local elected officials, and other stakeholders in a series of informational meetings, outreach, and public comment processes, and through online interaction.  On the Blog