The Front and First Street Grade Crossing Elimination Project proposes to eliminate two highway-rail grade crossings by converting to a railroad-under grade separation through the construction of an overpass along a new roadway alignment. This project is located just over one mile west of the West Springfield, Massachusetts CSX Transportation (CSX) Intermodal Terminal. The proximity to the Intermodal Terminal results in both crossings being blocked for extended periods of time, sometimes multiple times a day, impacting vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists as trains arriving at the facility are switched and sorted. As noted in the State Rail Plan, Massachusetts and CSX have partnered to invest in improved freight operations and facilities, identifying this rail corridor as a critical piece of infrastructure to support the movement of freight.
This fully funded project will begin design in fall 2024 with 25% design and environmental review expected to be completed within two years.