MBTA To Create New Rail Modernization Strategy

The MBTA has announced plans to create an updated regional strategy to support the future of its rail system.

According to a Railway-News report, the MBTA's updated Rail Modernization Plan aims to transform regional rail service by better serving passengers across its service area and investing in “more frequent, more reliable, and more accessible service,“ according to an MBTA statement.

To accomplish its goal, MBTA officials said on Thursday, Feb. 26, they will seek public comment as they develop their strategy.

The agency noted that 64% of Massachusetts residents and 39% of Rhode Islanders live within three miles of an MBTA station. Improvements to the MBTA network will help address current travel times and promote development near rail transit facilities. 

A Trains.com article noted that the MBTA plan aims to identify investments necessary to “address frequency through infrastructure work to eliminate bottlenecks, enhance accessibility by introducing level boarding at stations that lack handicapped access features, and increase reliability through moves such as the purchase of new locomotives.” 

The MBTA will hold public meetings and other events to gather public comment, in addition to hosting virtual events to collect feedback. More information on the Rail Modernization Plan is available on the MBTA website.