Amtrak’s Southampton Yard: Modernizing Rail Infrastructure for Airo Trains

Introduction

Amtrak has commenced a significant modernization project at the Southampton Rail Yard, initiating construction of a new maintenance facility designed for its next-generation Airo trains, which will operate on the Northeast Regional and Amtrak Downeaster routes.

Project Overview

The project involves the construction of a new 60,000-square-foot facility. This facility will include a two-bay Maintenance & Inspection (M&I) building, complete with inspection pits, drop tables, sanding systems, and fueling pads, alongside a renovated Service & Inspection (S&I) building. The Southampton Rail Yard will also see the installation of new catenary structures, storage tracks for Amtrak and MBTA trains, retaining walls, and upgraded utility and operations areas. The anticipated completion date for the project is 2029.

Key Participants

The event marking the commencement of the modernization project was attended by representatives from Amtrak, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA), and the Rail Passengers Association.

Fleet Modernization and Funding

This project is an integral part of Amtrak’s broader fleet modernization plan. This plan encompasses facility upgrades across its network and is coordinated with the Federal Railroad Administration. Funding for this initiative is, in part, derived from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Similar modernization efforts are concurrently underway in Philadelphia, Seattle, and Washington, DC.

Operational Impact and Benefits

The new facility is designed to service Airo, Acela, and Long Distance trains operating from Boston’s South Station. This upgrade is expected to enhance the reliability of routes throughout the East Coast. The Airo trainsets are expected to provide improved energy efficiency, accessibility, and comfort, aligning with Amtrak’s objectives for modern, sustainable passenger rail services.

Conclusion

Amtrak has begun a modernization project at the Southampton Rail Yard, constructing a new maintenance facility for its Airo trains. This project includes a 60,000-square-foot facility and is part of a larger fleet modernization plan. The project is expected to be completed by 2029 and is funded in part by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The new facility will service Airo, Acela, and Long Distance trains and is expected to improve route reliability.

Company Summary

Amtrak: Amtrak is a passenger railroad service operating throughout the United States.

Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT): MassDOT is the transportation agency for the state of Massachusetts.

Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA): NNEPRA is a passenger rail authority focused on services in Northern New England.

Rail Passengers Association: The Rail Passengers Association is an advocacy group for passenger rail.