Keolis Assumes Dispatcher Duties for MBTA South Coast Rail

Boston’s Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is transferring dispatching responsibilities for the South Coast Rail territory to MBTA’s Railroad Operations division and will now be performed by its operating partner Keolis Commuter Services, marking a significant milestone in the project’s progress.

“We remain committed to delivering long awaited rail service on the new South Coast Rail project to provide residents with reliable alternatives to driving,” said MBTA GM/CEO Phillip Eng. “With the completion of automatic train control testing and the support of our operating partner Keolis taking over dispatch, we’re excited to be one step closer to bringing safe and reliable service to more communities.”

The Transition to Keolis

The upcoming transition includes preparations for Keolis to assume maintenance responsibilities effective February 1, 2025, further consolidating operational oversight under MBTA management.

Currently, Massachusetts Coastal Railroad manages dispatch operations and is actively facilitating the transition to Keolis, ensuring a seamless integration into the Commuter Rail system.

The shift to Keolis for dispatch operations underscores the project’s evolution and its alignment with established timelines. Initiated in 2019, the South Coast Rail project aims to restore passenger rail service between Boston and Southeastern Massachusetts, after over 65 years of hiatus.

"This transition is a pivotal step towards integrating the South Coast Rail project into our Commuter Rail system," said MBTA South Coast Rail Program Executive Karen Antion. "With Keolis taking over dispatch duties, we are on track to meet our scheduled milestones and bring Commuter Rail service to the South Coast region."

South Cost Passenger Service

Passenger service is anticipated to commence in Spring 2025 and the fare structure for all South Coast Rail stations will align with Zone 8 pricing of the existing Commuter Rail fare structure.

Some trains may pass at speeds up to 79 miles per hour. The MBTA emphasizes public safety, urging caution near rail tracks and underscoring the importance of avoiding trespassing.

With Automatic Train Control testing completed, additional testing is underway, including testing of over 800 positive train control functions.

Beginning in August, two test trains will be testing simultaneously.