History

In 2003, for the first time in the history of the United States, the MBTA held a call for tenders to contract out management of a suburban train network to a private company. Previously the network had been operated by Amtrak.

This was a remarkable initiative because it demonstrated the local authorities' determination to break free of Amtrak's grip in order to find less costly and more responsive solutions to their needs.

The Massachusetts Bay Commuter Railroad (MCBR), a consortium comprising Connex-North America (60%), Bombardier (20%) and Alternate Concept Incorporation (20%), is now in charge of network operation, from the sale of tickets to the maintenance of track and rolling stock.