A new rail line will provide unprecedented access to downtown Boston, facilitating simpler commutes and travel for Bay Staters who live southeast of the city and unlocking new opportunities for buyers in the Boston home market.
Service on the Fall River/New Bedford Commuter Rail Line connecting southeast Massachusetts to downtown Boston began on March 24 after a launch celebration held by Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.
The launch marks the first time in over 65 years that the cities and towns of southeastern Massachusetts will be connected to downtown Boston via passenger rail.
The update extended the existing Middleborough Commuter Rail Line, reconstructed over 17 miles of the New Bedford Main Line and nearly 12 miles of the Fall River Secondary Line, upgraded the existing Middleborough Secondary track between Pilgrim Junction and Cotley Junction, added two new layover facilities and constructed six new stations at Middleborough, East Taunton, Freetown, Fall River Depot, Church Street and New Bedford.
The rail line will make it easier for people to live in southeast Massachusetts and commute into Boston for work, further integrating the economies of these areas and possibly helping to alleviate the tight housing market.
“The start of rail service will give people more options for how to get around, where to live and where to work,” said Governor Maura Healey. “It means less traffic congestion and shorter commutes.”
Other local leaders also expressed excitement about the opportunities the rail line creates for current and future residents.
“Intercity rail service between New Bedford and Boston will be yet another good reason to live in our region,” New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell said in a press release. “With the normalization of remote work arrangements in many industries, it will offer the opportunity to enjoy Greater New Bedford’s quality of life and to travel easily to Boston for work when necessary.”