CSX Delivers $5M To Worcester

In announcing a "substantial completion" of its $100-million rail yard project, CSX Corp. has followed through with its commitment to contribute to a neighborhood improvement fund, giving Worcester $5 million, according to City Manager Michael O'Brien.

In a memo to city councilors, O'Brien said his administration has worked with CSX to complete the project, announced last fall, and secure improvements that include expanded commuter rail service, street and sidewalk improvements and distribution of container fee donations.

The $5 million for the neighborhood improvement fund will be allocated in the following way:

$1 million for open space, including land acquisition and improvements to the Harrington Way playground and Mulcahy Field;
$3 million for neighborhood improvements, including aquatics and recreation at Holmes Field and East Park; and
$1 million for improvements to the Canal District, Shrewsbury Street and Grafton Street business districts.

"We commend CSX for its work to ensure that this critical infrastructure project fit within its context of Worcester and our neighborhoods," O'Brien said. "We look forward to working with them in the future to ensure that this new rail yard serves as an important element in Worcester's economic development activities."

The project is part of CSX's shift of operations from Allston to Westborough and Worcester, bringing 85 jobs to the city, along with its intermodal container operations. Late last year, through a deal with CSX, the state took control of the commuter rail line between Framingham and Worcester, increasing service between Worcester and Boston.

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