Boston Region Looking for Commuter Rail Fixes

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority is working through the "Rail Vision" planning process, looking to chart a future for commuter rail in the Boston region, according to an article by Sean Philip Cotter.

Specifically, Rail Vision is "looking at a wide range of options" for the Purple Line, with a goal to produce eight alternatives. Cotter explains some of the possibilities: "Should the Commuter Rail create a reverse-commute system, possibly spurring business growth in the likes of Lynn and Brockton? Should it go with a 'regional rail' approach with much more service, like the subway lines? How big of a price tag would each of these carry, and how much would they drain from other services?"

At least one alternative will include a proposal for a North-South Rail Link, according to Cotter. More details about the politics and economics of regional rail around Boston are included in the article.