The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) recently awarded two Industrial Rail Access Program (IRAP) grants totaling $1.1 million.
“Investing in freight rail is not just about tracks and trains,” Monica Tibbits-Nutt, transportation secretary and CEO, said. “It is about unlocking opportunity, supporting local businesses, and shaping a stronger economic future for Massachusetts. This year’s award recipients are helping to deliver the infrastructure our commonwealth needs, improving access, cutting emissions, and strengthening the supply chains that keep our communities moving. Their work brings us closer to a more sustainable, resilient, and connected economy that will serve future generations.”
The awardees are:
East Brookfield & Spencer Railroad was awarded $700,000 to expand sort-out track capacity at the New England Automotive Gateway in Spencer. Expansion will enhance reliability for 26,000 railcars annually, allowing more efficient handling of automotive shipments. The project will create 10 jobs.
The city of Lawrence was awarded $408,474 to rehabilitate an existing industrial spur track. The project will increase freight capacity by adding 42 railcars annually. It also will create six jobs.
The program is a competitive state-funded public/private partnership program that provides financial assistance to companies investing in rail infrastructure that leads directly to the increased use of a rail network and a reduction in regional truck traffic.