The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), along with Massport, recently developed a Massachusetts Freight Plan for the state’s $500 billion multimodal freight transportation system.
The plan includes strategies to respond to climate change, workforce development, emphasizing customer service, and increasing the number of truck parking and servicing areas.
“Freight transportation is vital in keeping Massachusetts competitive economically with domestic and international trade partners,” Stephanie Pollack, transportation secretary and CEO, said. “We must make wise and strategic decisions to improve the infrastructure of freight corridors and to collaborate with stakeholders so our policy decisions will support this important sector of the Massachusetts economy.”
MassDOT and Massport have submitted applications to fund the freight corridor improvements.
They are requesting a $63.33 million Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant for the Revitalize New England’s Maritime Gateway Project, and for the design and construction of Berth 10, the GateVision operating system and the Cypher-E Freight Corridor. They are also requesting a $33 million INFRA grant for the I-495 Corridor Improvement Program, which would supplement a current $269 million investment, and an INFRA Grant for an unspecified amount for the upgrade of 20 bridges and more than 31 miles of rail on the New England Central Railroad.
The public can provide feedback on the plan through Dec. 6.