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12/22/2003Transit News

Underground rail tunnel could be added to Massachusetts’ long-term transportation plan

A proposed rail tunnel linking Boston’s two major transportation hubs has garnered support from 121 state representatives and senators. The politicians are encouraging Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney to add the project to the state’s long-term transportation plan.

The project is designed to link Boston’s North and South stations via a double tracked 1.5-mile tunnel, which would enable Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority trains to run non-stop through the system. Trains currently have to turn around when they arrive at either end of downtown Boston.

Estimated to cost between $2.4 billion and $3.8 billion, the project would include a central underground station, shopping mall and pedestrian links throughout downtown Boston, and underground platforms at the North and South stations.

The tunnel also would connect MBTA’s Purple Line branches, and could link the Northeast Corridor with New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine and Canada, according to a prepared statement.