MassDOT approves $200M for commuter-rail modernization

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation board yesterday approved $600 million for major transportation investments across Massachusetts, including $200 million to modernize the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority's (MBTA) commuter-rail fleet.

The funding was authorized by Chapter 90 legislation and included in the fiscal-year 2026-2030 Capital Investment Plan, which was signed by Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey earlier this year.

Funds directed to the MBTA’s Rail Reliability Program will support replacement of some of the system’s oldest locomotives with 10 new diesel-electric locomotives and 10 battery/catenary locomotives that will be cleaner and quieter.

The total funding also includes:

• $200 million for transportation investments that directly support new housing production. Funds can support transportation needs that otherwise stand in the way of housing production, including roads and bridges, sidewalks and bicycle infrastructure, intersections, accessibility and safety improvements, lighting and stormwater management.
• $200 million to repair and modernize transportation infrastructure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

“Today’s board vote is an important step toward delivering transportation infrastructure that supports housing production, improves connections and strengthens the resilience of critical assets across the state. These investments reflect our commitment to building a safer, more reliable and seamless multimodal transportation system," said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng.