NEW: Commuter Rail Express Service to Boston to Start Next Monday

Thursday, April 25, 2013

GoLocalWorcester News Team

Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray, along with Mass DOT Secretary and CEO Richard Davey were on hand at Union Station today to announce the start of commuter rail express service between Worcester and Boston next week.

Two express trains along the Worcester/Framingham Line will begin service between Worcester’s Union Station and Boston’s South Station beginning Monday, April 29.

Lieutenant Governor Murray also announced he will travel on the 6:20 A.M. inaugural express train from Worcester to Boston on Monday, April 29 at 6:20 a.m. Murray will be joined by Mayor Petty along with members of the legislative delegation.

“I am excited to be a part of today’s announcement. With the addition of the express trains being added today, commuters to and from Worcester will have their commuting time significantly reduced creating greater opportunities for travel east and west,” said Mayor Joseph Petty. “I want to thank the Patrick-Murray Administration, especially Lt. Gov. Murray and Secretary Davey, for recognizing the need for these express trains to Worcester."

Express service will include one trip from Worcester to Boston in the morning and a return trip from Boston to Worcester in the evening. The express train will depart from Worcester at 6:20 a.m., only making one stop in Framingham at 7:00 a.m. before arriving to Back Bay Station at 7:37 a.m. then South Station at 7:43 a.m. Return service will depart from South Station at 5:35 p.m. then stop at Back Bay Station at 5:41 p.m., making only one stop in Framingham at 6:13 p.m. prior to arriving in Worcester at 6:43 p.m.

“After the state finalized its historic agreement with CSX Transportation, new opportunities are beginning to emerge for commuters and businesses in Worcester and surrounding communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Murray. “With the launch of this special express train, commuters traveling from Central and MetroWest communities to and from Boston during rush hour traffic will have a more efficient transportation option. I encourage commuters to take advantage of this new service."

“The announcement of additional express service between Worcester and Boston will not only help to improve the daily commute for so many, but will also demonstrate the great need for improved transportation access throughout the Commonwealth,” said Secretary Davey. “As we traveled around the Commonwealth in the fall, it was loud and clear that people want more service and it is great to have the opportunity to announce that today.”

“The addition of two express trains continues the momentum, progress and growth commuter rail is bringing to our City,” said Worcester City Manager Michael V. O’Brien. “The enhanced link between the two largest cities in New England will serve as a catalyst for additional economic activity – future business and population growth and more real estate investment. This is a win for Worcester and the region."

There will be no changes to the current weekend service. For more information, as well as updated online schedules for the Worcester/Framingham line, visit http://www.MBCR.net and www.mbta.com. Pocket schedules are also currently available.