TAUNTON — A preliminary analysis of potential commuter rail stations would leave Fall River riders with two options to catch the train.
After reviewing four potential station locations, the two to emerge are the same two sites that have been considered the favorites for commuter rail stops since discussions on a commuter rail extension restarted in past years: the former train depot adjacent to the intersection of Pearce and Davol streets and near Battleship Cove at what is now the Gates of the City.
The other two potential locations being considered were the Weaver’s Cove Energy site on New Street and where state-owned salt sheds currently stand, also near Battleship Cove.
Greg Guimond, a program manager with the Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District, said the Davol Street location is endorsed by Fall River leaders who view the station as being part of an multi-modal transportation hub that could also lead to further development in the area, especially with the planned relocation of Route 79 that is expected to open up additional land along the Taunton River.
“Over the last six months, it has been made clear that this (Davol Street) is the station site,” Guimond said.
Along with the potential for further development spurred by a rail station, the Davol Street option received high grades for its proximity to the population, its ability to tie into already existing sewer and water infrastructures and the low likelihood of environmental impacts.
It was also said that if a dedicated bus line to Boston were to be implemented instead of commuter rail, such a station would also be at the Davol Street site.
The analysis was presented to members of the Southeastern Massachusetts Commuter Rail Task Force during the group’s monthly meeting held Wednesday at the Massachusetts Highway Department’s offices in Taunton.
In promoting the Battleship Cove site adjacent to the Gates of the City, SRPEDD Executive Director Steven Smith cited the potential for tie-ins to the city’s waterfront tourist attractions, as well as access to Columbia Street and downtown.
A rail station at the Gates of the City would not include expanded parking, meaning those looking to catch the train from that location would need to find alternative methods to get to the station.
With those two stations sitting about 1 mile from each other, Guimond said it did not make much sense to also put a stop at the Weaver’s Cove site. That location was also hampered by development constrictions in the area.
Along with the four Fall River sites considered, rail planners looked at 51 other potential station sites across the region. That list was whittled down to 21 for Wednesday’s meeting and continued consideration, though comments on all locations will be accepted by South Coast Rail Project Manager through July.
A final decision on the stations is expected in September, with those determinations being used in environmental documents needed for the review process.

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