The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has confirmed that passenger service for the South Coast Rail will commence on Monday, 24 March 2025, pending final approval from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). This marks the return of rail service to Taunton, Freetown, New Bedford, Middleboro, and Fall River for the first time in 65 years.
Ahead of the launch, MBTA will host a public meeting in Freetown on Monday, 10 February at 6 pm, following similar meetings in Taunton, Fall River, and New Bedford.
“The people of Taunton, Freetown, New Bedford, Middleboro, and Fall River have waited far too long for passenger rail service. This project will make travel easier for South Coast residents, reduce congestion, and spur economic development,” Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey stated.
“Delivering new rail service to the South Coast is a key commitment. The MBTA is proud to work alongside the FRA to begin service ahead of our original May target. We appreciate the patience and support of local communities during testing and training,” MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng said.
MBTA South Coast Rail service and schedule
The new service will include:
- 15 weekday trips on the Fall River Line and 17 on the New Bedford Line, totalling 32 daily trips between South Station and East Taunton.
- Weekend service with 26 trips between South Station and East Taunton.
- Late-night departures from Boston, with the last train leaving just before midnight.
- Shuttle services connecting terminus stations to East Taunton for additional travel flexibility.
Train station renaming
- The Middleborough/Lakeville Line will be renamed the Fall River/New Bedford Line.
- The Middleborough/Lakeville Station will be renamed Lakeville Station but will only serve the seasonal Cape Cod Flyer.
- The new Middleborough Station at 52 West Grove Street will handle Commuter Rail services.
Ticket pricing
- South Coast Rail stations will be priced in Zone 8, with fares set at $12.25 for a full ticket and $6 for reduced fare passengers.
Safety and infrastructure Updates
- Automatic Train Control (ATC) testing was completed in July 2024, with dispatch responsibilities transferred to Keolis.
- Positive Train Control (PTC) safety functions were finalised in December 2024, ensuring compliance with federal safety standards.
- All six stations – Middleborough, East Taunton, Freetown, Fall River Depot, Church Street, and New Bedford – were completed by September 2024 and are fully accessible.
- Operator training is ongoing, with demonstration services scheduled for early March 2025.
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