The administration of Governor Deval Patrick and Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray is committed to improving transportation between downtown Boston and the South Coast, particularly the cities of Fall River and New Bedford. A rail link between Boston and the South Coast will serve as a catalyst for economic development and growth. To further this effort, the Executive Office of Transportation and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority have launched the most comprehensive and transparent planning process to date to evaluate transportation alternatives for the South Coast region.

On April 4, 2007, Governor Patrick announced the South Coast Rail Plan for Action to bring  passenger rail service to the South Coast by 2016. This website is a key part of that process, providing a means to share information with all project stakeholders – elected officials, municipal representatives, members of interest and advocacy groups, and the general public – and to seek public comment and encourage public involvement. The Executive Office of Transportation and the MBTA appreciate your interest in South Coast Rail, and hope that you will visit this website frequently.