MBTA breaks ground on South Coast rail line

MBTA rolling out new digital tools to support better operation of commuter trains.

MBTA

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority broke ground today on Phase 1 of its South Coast Rail Line.

“South Coast Rail Phase 1 will connect Taunton, Fall River, New Bedford, and the surrounding areas to Boston, giving people more options to get to and from southeastern Massachusetts,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “We are proud to advance South Coast Rail further than it’s ever been as part of our administration’s $8 billion MBTA infrastructure investment plan over the next five years.”

“Having Phase 1 of South Coast Rail fully funded in the FY20-24 Capital Investment Plan is a significant milestone,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “Thank you to everyone who played a role in keeping this project going forward and we look forward to Phase 1’s start of service in 2023.”

“The South Coast Rail groundbreaking in Freetown is historic. For years, constituents of the South Coast have asked for more accessibility to Boston and the Commonwealth has spent years developing and planning this project,” said Representative Carole Fiola. “This groundbreaking symbolizes the physical start to this project which is beyond exciting and I am proud to be a part of it. I would like to thank the South Coast residents for their passion, persistence, and perseverance.”