For the first time in 65 years, Taunton, Freetown, and New Bedford will have passenger rail service to downtown Boston, starting on March 24.  The South Coast Rail project has been years in the making.

On March 24 the South Coast Rail line will officially be open for service. “It’s a historical day realistically,” Executive Director and CEO of MassHire Michael Santos said. “We’ve been talking about the MBTA coming to New Bedford for 30 years now.

For commuters who need to get to rail stations in Fall River and New Bedford, SRTA will unveil an on-demand service, but isn't changing fixed routes.

"On MBTA Commuter Rail cars, service animals are always allowed, but non-service dogs are restricted, especially during peak hours," the MBTA says. "During off-peak hours, leashed non-service dogs may be allowed, at the discretion of Commuter Rail staff, and dogs are never permitted on seats."