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SD 311

An Act restoring commuter rail to Cape Cod

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dylan Fernandes

Directs MBTA to launch year-round Buzzards Bay-South Station commuter rail within 12 months, with at least 3 morning and 3 evening weekday trips, reconnecting Cape Cod to Boston.

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Bill Summary · SD 311

Summary: Senate Bill SD 311 — An Act restoring commuter rail to Cape Cod

Overview

Senate Docket No. 311, titled “An Act restoring commuter rail to Cape Cod,” is a proposed Massachusetts bill introduced for the 2025-2026 General Court session. The bill directs the MBTA to establish year-round commuter rail service between Buzzards Bay (Cape Cod) and South Station (Boston) via the Cape Cod line, with a specific emphasis on aligning schedules with commuter needs. The act is modeled to restore service that would connect Cape Cod more directly to the greater Boston area.

Purpose and Intent

  • Reconnect Cape Cod with the MBTA commuter rail network.
  • Provide year-round, daily rail service between Buzzards Bay and South Station.
  • Improve regional mobility for residents, workers, students, and businesses by adding a predictable, everyday transit option.

Key Provisions

  • Implementation deadline: Not later than 12 months after the act’s effective date, the MBTA must begin commuter passenger train service between Buzzards Bay station and South Station via the Cape Cod line.
  • Service rhythm: The service must operate year-round.
  • Scheduling alignment: Train schedules should be aligned with the commuting patterns of the service areas “as feasible” as determined by the MBTA.
  • Minimum service level: The MBTA must operate at least three morning-peak trips and three evening-peak trips on this route each weekday.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Primary agency: Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) — responsible for planning, launching, and operating the service.
  • Cape Cod residents and workers — potential for improved access to jobs, education, and services in the Boston area.
  • Businesses and tourism sectors along the Cape Cod line — potential benefits from improved accessibility and mobility.
  • Local governments and regional planners — implications for transit-oriented development and regional transportation planning.

Implementation Timeline and Process

  • The act envisions a new service start within 12 months of the act’s effective date.
  • MBTA is empowered to determine feasibility and to align schedules accordingly.
  • The text does not specify funding sources or appropriations; it focuses on the obligation to begin service and minimum weekday frequency.

Background and Status

  • The bill is a proposed measure in the 2025-2026 session.
  • Filed as Senate Docket No. 311 with representation by Senator Dylan A. Fernandes; co-petition from Steven G. Xiarhos.
  • Indicates precedence in earlier sessions (similar matter previously filed as House No. 4118 in 2023-2024).

Notes

  • No dollar amounts or funding mechanisms are provided in the bill text.
  • The lack of funding details means potential future amendments may address capital costs, operations, and funding sources.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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