Major Announcement Moves South Coast Rail Forward

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration's commitment to the South Coast Rail economic development and transportation project, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has closed on the legal transaction with CSX Transportation to acquire the rail lines necessary for the restoration of commuter rail service between Boston and the South Coast region.

"Helping this region realize the promise of South Coast Rail has been our focus since day one," said Governor Deval Patrick. "While others have stopped at talking about this project, we are making it happen. This agreement is another important example of our commitment to bringing this project one step closer to reality.  "The Governor made the announcement today along with Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray, Senator John Kerry, Congressman Jim McGovern and Secretary Jeff Mullan.  The full announcement can be read here. In another major milestone for South Coast Rail, a new request for proposals was released on June 10 for the reconstruction of three rail bridges in New Bedford.  In February, the Obama Administration awarded MassDOT $20 million in competitive stimulus TIGER funds to replace the deteriorating railroad bridges. Bridge construction will begin in the fall.For additional information on how the Patrick-Murray Administration's agenda has led Massachusetts out of a global recession sooner and stronger than the rest of the nation, visit www.mass.gov/governor/agenda.