As part of the Patrick- Murray Administration's Massachusetts Recovery Plan to enhance economic development and create jobs by strengthening public transit and rail service, Mass. Lieutenant Governor Timothy P. Murray joined U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and Congressman John Olver to announce the groundbreaking for the $55.5-million Wachusett Commuter Rail Extension Project.

The project is funded by a federal stimulus Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Grant. The work will extend the Fitchburg Commuter Rail Line by 4.5 miles to a brand new Wachusett commuter rail station. The project also includes track improvements to support freight and passenger rail and a new layover facility.

"Thanks to the Recovery Act, we're investing $55.5 million to extend commuter rail service and unlock economic opportunities for people across Massachusetts," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "This is great news for the region's economy and the thousands of Massachusetts commuters who will benefit from a faster, safer, more reliable, and more comfortable ride."

"Right now, trying to get into Boston from the north, west or south of Fitchburg is a challenge," said Congressman Olver. "Route 2 is gridlocked during prime commute times, and it can be difficult to find parking and to drive to some of the stations along the line. Once built, this station will be in a prime location for commuters to quickly get off Route 2 and onto a train within minutes. The hardest part of the workday shouldn't be getting to the office."

Ridership on the Fitchburg Commuter Rail Line between Boston and Fitchburg, Mass., has grown steadily since 2004. Growing ridership and at-capacity parking facilities have influenced the service extension. It is estimated that the facility will service more than 400 new commuter rail passengers in 2012 and divert 824 vehicle trips from Route 2.

The Wachusett extension project will improve the region's economy by reducing the commute time from communities west of Fitchburg to the Boston area job market increasing the desirability of living in the region. Additional "reverse commute" options offer an opportunity for workers along the corridor to access employment centers in the region, including the 231 Industrial Park in Fitchburg.