The new MBTA South Coast commuter rail tracks connecting southeastern Massachusetts with Boston begin testing in the summer of 2023. Bostonians shared their desires for improved public transit, and it seems those wishes are being answered. The MBTA shared the exciting news of progress and looks forward to the refurbishing of a long idle train service that will operate for the first time in nearly 80 years:
The South Coast Rail project will offer a reliable transit connection between southeastern Massachusetts and Boston. Riders will be able to take a one-seat trip—no transfers needed—for the first time since the late 1950s.
Taunton, New Bedford, and Fall River are the only major cities within 50 miles of Boston that do not currently have Commuter Rail access to Boston. Phase 1 will bring service to these communities by late 2023.
The MBTA and Boston government spent years determining the best route to restore the South Coast commuter rail and finally began implementation in 2020 with the investment of nearly $1 billion in Massachusetts revenue bonds.
Progress of the MBTA South Coast rail
Phase 1 will create extensions from the existing Middleborough/Lakeville line and develop New Bedford and Fall River lines. The Full Build extends the Stoughton line and faces delays and challenges due to wetlands and electrification.
This full build will connect more towns to the New Bedford and Fall River MBTA lines. MassDOT and the MBTA provide regular updates on the progress of both phases.
9 existing stations will continue to receive service including: Middleborough/ Lakeville, Bridgewater, Campello, Brockton, Montello, Holbrook/Randolph, Braintree, Quincy Center, and JFK/UMass-with the final destination of this train being South Station. Additional stations on track to offer scheduled service by the end of 2023 include: New Bedford, East Taunton, and Freetown.