By CHAD CAIN

Staff Writer

Tuesday, February 18, 2014, (Published in print: Wednesday, February 19, 2014)

 

HOLYOKE - The state's transportation chief sent a hopeful signal - but made no promises - Tuesday about the possibility of increasing the number of daily Amtrak shuttles between Springfield and Greenfield when new high-speed passenger rail service begins early next year.

In remarks before business leaders at a Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce luncheon, Transportation Secretary Richard A. Davey said he loves the idea of expanded service but cautioned that funding it remains a concern.

The western Massachusetts legislative delegation is lobbying for as many as 10 round trips per day along the revamped Vermonter route, which will include stops in Greenfield, Northampton and Springfield. Plans currently call for one train per day.

"If we want train service 10 times a day to Springfield and Greenfield, I love it," Davey said. "If we want to look at the Inland Route from Springfield to Boston, I love it. We're studying it now. But we have to remember how we're going to pay for it." Click here to read more.