Bill > S2345

This bill aims to establish fast, frequent, and reliable passenger rail service between Pittsfield and Boston via Springfield. The key provisions of the bill are as follows: 1. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is required to run passenger rail service between Pittsfield and Boston via Springfield at least five times daily on the existing CSX rail line, utilizing the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority or contracting with outside entities as necessary. 2. MassDOT is required to evaluate and identify potential funding sources, both at the state and federal level, to support the establishment of this passenger rail service, and to determine the necessary steps for the Commonwealth to position itself for available federal funding. 3. MassDOT is required to conduct an economic impact analysis on the potential benefits and transformational impact that this expanded passenger rail service would have on the communities along the rail corridor, including effects on demographic and growth patterns, affordable housing, traffic congestion, workforce reach, and economic development. 4. The provisions of Section 1 of the bill, regarding the operation of the passenger rail service, are set to take effect on January 1, 2022.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S2345