Massachusetts DOT awards rail access grant to Westfield Quarry

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has awarded a $680,000 Industrial Rail Access Program (IRAP) grant to John S. Lane & Son Inc., a Peckham Industries company that operates the Westfield Quarry.

The project will rebuild and expand an existing industrial rail siding at the Westfield Quarry, allowing the company to increase freight-rail shipments by approximately 1,700 rail cars annually and eliminate an estimated 5,950 truck trips each year. The investment will also help retain 21 jobs, MassDOT officials said in a press release.

The IRAP is a competitive state-funded grant program designed to leverage public and private investments in freight-rail access improvement projects. Eligible projects include track and tie improvements, drainage work, grade crossing upgrades and other infrastructure work that directly supports freight-rail access.

Projects that apply for IRAP funding are evaluated for program compliance and the level of public benefits they would bring, such as a reduction of truck traffic, rail system preservation, mobility, economic development, job creation or retention and safety. 

The grants can reimburse up to 80% of eligible project costs, with a maximum grant award of $700,000 available per project. Grant recipients are required to provide matching funds equal to at least 20% of eligible project costs, MassDOT officials said.

MassDOT accepts applications for IRAP grants year round, with the remaining quarterly review deadlines for fiscal-year 2027 grants set at Dec. 31, 2026, and March 31, 2027.