New England Regional Vision for High Speed Rail

The New England Governors today announced they are working together on a coordinated regional vision for high speed rail that will connect major cities and airports, and support economic growth throughout the region.  The Vision for the New England High Speed and Intercity Rail Network lays out key projects to strengthen passenger and freight rail service along new and existing rail corridors.  The goal is to double passenger rail ridership in the Northeast by 2030.

“By investing in a strengthened high speed rail network we will be supporting economic development and smart growth, connecting our vibrant urban areas, and providing people with the opportunity to move more quickly throughout the New England region,” said Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick.

 Last week, Governor Patrick and Transportation Secretary James A. Aloisi, Jr. met with U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood in Washington, D.C. to discuss the regional high speed rail vision and Massachusetts’ commitment to passenger and freight rail improvements.  The states have already submitted pre-applications as part of the federal stimulus competitive grant process.  In August, the states will meet in Vermont at a high speed rail summit to continue their push for a strong high speed rail network in New England.

The six key projects in the states’ vision are:

• Downeaster service improvements between Boston and Portland
• New Hampshire Capital corridor rail service with stops in Concord, Manchester, Nashua, Boston
• Vermont Western corridor service connecting Burlington, Rutland, Bennington with Albany
• Return the Vermonter to original route through western Massachusetts via Knowledge corridor
• Double track, replace bridges on the Springfield Line serving New Haven, Hartford, Springfield
• Connect Providence and Boston to TF Green Airport in Rhode Island via Northeast corridor.

 Massachusetts will continue its investment in the South Coast Rail project and continues to be supportive of building a connection between the North and South regional rail networks.  Learn more about the rail vision.

 

Comments

[Paul Early]

Will the New Hampshire Capital rail service be routed through Lowell? If so will there be a station there or at Anderson RTC?

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EOT Responds: Thanks for writing, Paul, yes it would be routed through Lowell. It is too soon to specifically say which stations would be served.