Press Release  MassDOT Announces Total of $1.1 Million in Industrial Rail Access Program (IRAP) Grants

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) today announced two grants totaling $1.1 million from the Industrial Rail Access Program (IRAP) to enhance freight rail access, economic opportunity, and job growth across Massachusetts. Grant recipients include companies in Spencer and Lawrence.

IRAP is a competitive state-funded public/private partnership program that provides financial assistance to companies investing in rail infrastructure that directly leads to their increased use of the rail network and related reduction in regional truck traffic. Grant recipients must match the MassDOT grant funds with other sources of funds totaling at least 40% of a project's total cost.

“Investing in freight rail is not just about tracks and trains. It is about unlocking opportunity, supporting local businesses, and shaping a stronger economic future for Massachusetts,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt. “This year’s award recipients are helping to deliver the infrastructure our Commonwealth needs, improving access, cutting emissions, and strengthening the supply chains that keep our communities moving. Their work brings us closer to a more sustainable, resilient, and connected economy that will serve future generations.”

“Our team is proud to support projects that can meet the freight needs of businesses in Massachusetts and move us in the right direction for meeting our ambitious climate goals,” said Rail and Transit Administrator Meredith Slesinger. “The efficiency of our freight rail network is a top priority for us, and we are pleased to see such ingenuity from the private sector in delivering the infrastructure that will lead to improved travel times and loading and unloading capabilities.”     

The IRAP program received applications from freight rail-supported businesses across the Commonwealth. Projects were approved based on meeting program requirements and the level of public benefits they offered such as system preservation, mobility, economic development, and safety.

The Fiscal Year 2026 recipients include the following:

East Brookfield & Spencer Railroad ($700,000). The East Brookfield & Spencer Railroad will expand sort-out track capacity at the New England Automotive Gateway in Spencer. This expansion will enhance reliability for 26,000 railcars each year, ensuring more efficient handling of automotive shipments across the region. The project will also generate 10 new jobs, reinforcing the Gateway’s role as a driver of economic development.

City of Lawrence ($408,474). The City of Lawrence will receive funding to rehabilitate an existing industrial spur track, a project that will boost freight capacity by adding 42 railcars annually while also supporting the creation of six new jobs. 

For more information about the Industrial Rail Access Program (IRAP) please visit:  https://www.mass.gov/industrial-rail-access-program  

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