The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is beginning construction to rehabilitate the Fall River and New Bedford railroad lines, the Patrick administration announced today.
"South Coast residents deserve the benefits of a reliable and convenient connection to Boston and points in between," Gov. Deval Patrick said in a statement. "This work is another step in a methodical, comprehensive process that will move South Coast Rail forward."
The commonwealth purchased the rail lines from CSX Transportation in order to provide access for future South Coast rail service.
The construction is part of the state’s effort to improve South Coast rail service. Work on the 33 miles of rail lines-14 miles of track leading to Fall River and 19 miles leading to New Bedford-will begin this fall and continue until winter weather freezes the rail bed. Work will resume in spring 2014.
