All Aboard for Progress: Modernizing the Commuter Rail
January 16, 2025
On December 19, 2024, A Better City, representing its over 130 member organizations and institutions, testified before the MBTA Board of Directors. The testimony focused on the Regional Rail Request for Information results and the upcoming commuter rail procurement.
Caitlin Allen-Connelly, Senior Advisor on Transportation for A Better City, began by commending the MBTA for the success of the Track Improvement Plan. She noted that this initiative has produced impressive results, including faster, more reliable service on the Blue, Orange, and Red Lines. Green Line riders will also soon benefit from a smoother, more efficient commute. A Better City celebrates this progress and remains committed to ensuring the MBTA has the resources to maintain this positive trajectory.
A Better City also expressed strong support for the MBTA as it prepares for the next commuter rail contract, the Commonwealth's largest. This contract represents a critical opportunity to modernize our rail system. A Better City urged the MBTA to leverage this opportunity to build a truly transformative transportation system for the future by:
- Promoting equity and environmental justice: Supporting regional growth while prioritizing the needs of environmental justice communities.
- Electrifying the system: Reducing emissions, improving service, and incentivizing the use of public transportation.
- Prioritizing safety and reliability: Ensuring a safe and dependable transportation system for all riders.
Allen-Connelly commended Mike Muller, Executive Director of MBTA Commuter Rail, and his team for their commitment to defining the MBTA's rail modernization vision. They have diligently explored both traditional and innovative procurement approaches to identify the most cost-effective and efficient path forward.
The procurement structure is a crucial decision point for our Commonwealth. A Better City emphasized that the MBTA must carefully consider how it bundles or unbundles different aspects of the project, such as operations, infrastructure, technology, and financing. Key considerations include:
- Prioritizing risk mitigation: Identifying and mitigating potential risks throughout the project lifecycle.
- Exploring public-private partnerships (P3s): Assessing the feasibility and benefits of leveraging P3 financing models.
- Ensuring flexibility in technology and fleet integration: Adapting to evolving technologies and ensuring seamless integration of new and existing systems.
- Building a strong internal management team: A skilled and experienced internal team is crucial to minimize disruptions and maximize positive outcomes for the Commonwealth.
Allen-Connelly stressed that public engagement is essential for building trust and support for rail modernization across the region. A Better City applauds the MBTA's presentation on the Request for Information results at the Board meeting as a positive step and encouraged further public presentations on potential procurement approaches to keep stakeholders informed and engaged.
Moving forward, A Better City recommended that the procurement structure and process should:
- Encourage competition: Foster a dynamic bidding environment to ensure the best value for the Commonwealth.
- Accommodate consortia: Allow for diverse partnerships and a wider range of expertise.
- Offer attractive contract terms: Incentivize innovation and long-term commitment from bidders.
- Prioritize infrastructure upgrades: Align with the state's climate goals and invest in sustainable infrastructure.
- Maintain excellent service: Ensure a high-quality rider experience throughout the transition and beyond.
A Better City believes that a modernized commuter rail is vital for reducing road congestion, achieving our climate goals, and driving economic growth. It can be a catalyst for housing production, job creation, and regional development. The organization is committed to working with our members and the Commonwealth to realize this vision.
