MassDOT Boosts Freight Rail: Spencer, MA Infrastructure Upgrade

MassDOT awards $1.1M in grants, with $700k boosting the East Brookfield & Spencer Railroad’s freight rail infrastructure. Improves automotive shipments and operational efficiency.

MassDOT Boosts Freight Rail: Spencer, MA Infrastructure Upgrade
September 30, 2025 11:54 pm
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Introduction

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has awarded grants totaling $1.1 million to enhance freight-rail transportation, with $700,000 going to the East Brookfield & Spencer Railroad for infrastructure improvements at its New England Automotive Gateway in Spencer.

East Brookfield & Spencer Railroad Grant

Grant Overview

The East Brookfield & Spencer Railroad received a grant of $700,000. This funding is allocated to expand the sort-out track capacity at its New England Automotive Gateway in Spencer. The project aims to boost operational reliability and streamline the handling of automotive shipments throughout the region.

Project Scope

The project’s primary goal is to improve the efficiency of automotive shipments. Currently, the facility manages 26,000 rail cars per year. The expansion is expected to create 10 new jobs.

Funding Source

Industrial Rail Access Program (IRAP)

The funding is provided through the state’s Industrial Rail Access Program (IRAP). IRAP is a public-private partnership program that offers financial support to companies and municipalities that invest in rail infrastructure.

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Conclusion

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) awarded two grants totaling $1.1 million to enhance freight-rail transportation. The East Brookfield & Spencer Railroad was awarded $700,000 to expand sort-out track capacity at its New England Automotive Gateway in Spencer.

Company Summary

Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT): The state transportation agency responsible for awarding the grants.

East Brookfield & Spencer Railroad: The recipient of a $700,000 grant to expand sort-out track capacity at the New England Automotive Gateway in Spencer.

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