Lawmakers oppose proposed MBTA Turnback Track location in Reading
(2-3 minute read)
State Representatives Richard M. Haggerty and Bradley H. Jones, Jr. have sent a joint letter to Phil Eng, Secretary of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, expressing their opposition to the MBTA’s proposed location for the commuter rail turnback track in Reading.
The proposed site, located near Vine Street and Hancock Street, borders the Maillet, Sommes, and Morgan Conservation Area - a space that underwent extensive restoration with more than $5 million in state, federal, and local funding. The representatives cited concerns about environmental impacts, noise pollution, and air quality, particularly due to the area’s proximity to sensitive conservation land and residential neighborhoods.
“Residents, the Select Board, and the Town Manager have all raised important concerns about environmental impacts, noise pollution, and air quality issues... We have had several meetings with the MBTA to discuss this proposal but feel that the plan as currently constituted does not represent the best use of resources and fails to properly and adequately address residents’ concerns.”
While both legislators reaffirmed their support for improving public transit access and expanding commuter options, they urged the MBTA to reconsider the current proposal and evaluate the existing Reading Depot location as an alternative site, even if it takes additional time to permit and construct.
“This option would fulfill the operational requirements of the modernization program - still achieving the program’s goals of improving services and reliability, while minimizing concerns raised by residents.”
The full letter, dated October 22, 2025, was sent from the Massachusetts State House and signed by Representatives Haggerty and Jones.
Letter sent to Acting Secretary of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation Phil Eng by State Representatives Rich Haggerty and Brad Jones.
