South Coast Rail

Extending through the southeastern region of Massachusetts, MTBA’s new South Coast Rail line restores vital connections to surrounding communities and will serve as a catalyst for regional development. The project provides service to the cities of Taunton, Fall River and New Bedford for the first time in over 65 years.

The Project Scope

The South Coast Rail project involved the design and construction of new track alignments, stations, layover facilities, signal and communication systems among other critical infrastructure work. HNTB and VHB, as a joint venture, served as the Designer of Record for the entire program. The joint venture team was previously engaged in environmental review and conceptual engineering for the project.

The rail initiative that includes a wide range of infrastructure enhancements, including:

• 37 miles of new track
• 12 bridges
• 28-grade crossings
• 2 new layover facilities
• 6 new stations

New Bedford Pedestrian Bridge

As part of the project, HNTB also led the design of the New Bedford Pedestrian Bridge. This network tied arch structure, spanning the Route 18 highway, is designed to facilitate safe and improved access to the rail station for nearby communities.

Staged construction and accelerated bridge construction (ABC) methods were used to minimize impacts to the roadway below and shorten the construction schedule. Features of the final structure include modern amenities including elevators, lighting and landscaping, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing addition to the city.

Benefits and Future Impact

Now open and in service, the South Coast Rail project is set to benefit the region for years to come, improving daily mobility for residents, reducing congestion and supporting broader economic growth and development.