# MassDOT Awards Westfield Rail Grant

On October 1, 2026, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation awarded John S. Lane & Son Inc. a $680,000 Industrial Rail Access Program grant for rail-siding improvements at Westfield Quarry in Westfield, Massachusetts. The project is expected to support 21 jobs, accommodate about 1,700 additional railcars annually, and eliminate an estimated 5,950 truck trips per year. IRAP recipients must provide at least a 20% match of eligible project costs.

- The award illustrates a state funding route for industrial rail-access improvements benefiting private operators and freight infrastructure; the recipient’s required match is a key consideration for project financing.
- Suppliers and contractors serving rail-siding, quarry, and freight infrastructure projects may find opportunities associated with implementing the funded improvements. The announcement describes an awarded grant, not an open solicitation.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Transportation, Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding
**Published:** October 02, 2026

### Government Entities
- Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT)
- Commonwealth of Massachusetts

### Vendors
- John S. Lane & Son Inc. (Grant recipient and Westfield Quarry operator)

### Key Quotes
> This investment will expand freight rail capacity in Westfield, support local jobs and take thousands of truck trips off our roads each year.
> — Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts

### Sources
- [Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $680,000 to Expand Freight Rail Access in Westfield | Mass.gov](https://www.mass.gov/news/healey-driscoll-administration-awards-680000-to-expand-freight-rail-access-in-westfield) - MA