# MassDOT Advances Pittsfield Rail Improvements

On October 8, 2026, MassDOT and CSX agreed to advance track-capacity improvements in Pittsfield, including a siding, with $31 million included in MassDOT’s FY 2027–2031 Capital Investment Plan. The work is intended to enable permanent seasonal Berkshire Flyer service. Amtrak also received approximately $2 billion in federal funding for additional trainsets expected to serve Massachusetts routes. The announcement identifies planned infrastructure work and funded equipment but does not announce an open solicitation or contractor bidding schedule.

- The Pittsfield track work represents a planned rail-infrastructure investment; the capital plan inclusion is not itself a contract award or solicitation.
- Rail construction and passenger-equipment businesses can use the announced funding and service plans to assess potential market demand, while recognizing that no bidding schedule was provided.
- The Amtrak funding and planned trainsets indicate a broader passenger-rail investment alongside the Massachusetts track improvements, with potential relevance to suppliers supporting rail equipment and service expansion.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Transportation
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** October 09, 2026

### Government Entities
- Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT)
- Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
- Amtrak

### Vendors
- CSX ()
- Amtrak (Recipient of federal funding for additional trainsets; operator of cited passenger rail services)

### Key Quotes
> These improvements will support safe, reliable passenger service while preserving the efficient freight operations that support regional businesses, communities, and economic growth.
> — Andy Daly, CSX Senior Director of Passenger Rail Operations

### Sources
- [Governor Healey Announces Major Step Toward Permanent Berkshire Flyer Service, Expanded Passenger Rail in Western Massachusetts | Mass.gov](https://www.mass.gov/news/governor-healey-announces-major-step-toward-permanent-berkshire-flyer-service-expanded-passenger-rail-in-western-massachusetts) - MA