Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey joined local and state officials to celebrate the ground breaking for improvements to the Berkshire Flyer service.
Officials gathered in Pittsfield to support the rail infrastructure improvements that will support permanent seasonal Berkshire Flyer service, improve reliability for passenger and freight trains, as well as lay the groundwork for expanded passenger service in Western Massachusetts. Officials said the improvements will address rail reliability, as well as strengthen connections to the Berkshires and advance the West-East Rail.
“People in Western Massachusetts deserve better rail connections, and we’re making real progress to deliver them,” Healey said. “The Berkshire Flyer is bringing more visitors to the region, supporting local businesses and giving residents more ways to travel. Now, we’re investing in the infrastructure needed to make this service a permanent seasonal option and move our broader West-East Rail plans forward. We’re going to keep building on this progress to better connect communities and grow our economy across Massachusetts.”
Since launching in 2022, the Berkshire Flyer has provided seasonal weekend passenger rail service between New York City and Pittsfield, connecting residents and visitors with the Berkshires’ businesses, cultural attractions and recreational destinations. The summer, the service included an additional round trip, as well as expanded travel options for Berkshire County residents and visitors.
The rail improvements will include construction of a passing track in Richmond, and track upgrades at CSX’s Pittsfield Yard that will allow passenger and freight trains to operate more efficiently along the corridor, reduce delays and increase capacity. The state’s Department of Transportation included $31 million in its Fiscal Year 2027-2032 Capital Investment Plan for the Pittsfield Track Capacity Projects. Once completed, the investments will provide the infrastructure needed to sustain permanent seasonal weekend Berkshire Flyer service while support future passenger rail expansion.
“Having been a staunch supporter of the Berkshire Flyer from its inception, I’m delighted to join Lieutenant Governor Driscoll and Secretary Eng in celebrating the permanent future of the Berkshire Flyer. From the arts to the culinary scene and the great outdoors, the Berkshires have something for everyone. This service will continue to serve as an economic catalyst, bringing thousands of visitors to the region and supporting the small businesses that are the backbone of our local economies,” U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal (D-MA) said. “Just weeks after announcing another $130 million to benefit West-East Rail, I’m pleased to celebrate yet another milestone as we continue our efforts to improve and expand passenger rail service. This work will not only benefit the Berkshire Flyer, but prepare Pittsfield for enhanced passenger rail service with West-East Rail, reaffirming our commitment to deliver enhanced connectivity from Pittsfield to Springfield to Boston.”