Your trusted source for local Boston, MA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Amtrak's NextGen Acela, the fastest passenger train in the U.S., began service from Boston's South Station on Thursday, reaching speeds of 160 mph. The new fleet features larger windows, increased seating capacity, and improved amenities, with pricing based on demand.
Watertown High School in Massachusetts will pilot the "Doorman" app, the first of its kind in the U.S., to limit students' screen time in class. The app uses VPN technology to block distracting content on students' smartphones during lessons, with an emergency unlock feature available. Teachers will train on the system before students use it in the second week of school.
Amtrak's NextGen Acela train made its inaugural arrival at Boston's South Station, achieving top speeds of 160 miles per hour. The new fleet promises increased reliability and capacity, with 80 additional seats per train and improved safety features. The first NextGen Acela service from South Station is scheduled for Thursday at 5 a.m.
Concord police investigate antisemitic incidents, including vandalism of Israeli flags and swastikas drawn at a high school. The CEO of a nonprofit involved in the flag display described the acts as intentional hate and intimidation. No arrests have been made as officials examine the incidents as potential hate crimes.
Fire safety inspectors warned the Gabriel House assisted living residence in Fall River that its sprinkler system lacked a required inspection for five years. This warning came just five days before a fire killed ten elderly residents, marking the deadliest incident in Massachusetts in over 40 years. Experts noted that such a high death toll is unusual for a building equipped with functional sprinklers.
Massachusetts State Trooper Michael Proctor appeals his firing over misconduct allegations, including inappropriate text messages about Karen Read. His lawyer argues the investigation was politically pressured and lacked evidence of bias affecting the case. The Civil Service Commission will continue to hear the appeal in October.
Boston offers a variety of student discounts and resources to help newcomers explore the city. Attractions like the Museum of Fine Arts and Boston Red Sox provide special pricing for students, enhancing their experience in the area. This guide serves as a comprehensive resource for students to navigate Boston affordably.
Mayor Michelle Wu announced the winners of Boston's 29th annual Mayor’s Garden Contest, celebrating urban gardening efforts across the city. First-place winners received the Golden Trowel award and were entered into a drawing for a JetBlue Grand Prize. The competition recognizes residents who enhance their neighborhoods with vibrant green spaces.
Massachusetts firefighter Dillon Kilduff faced arraignment on multiple child sex abuse charges, including providing obscene material to a minor. The incidents allegedly occurred in March 2025, and Kilduff posted $1,000 bail, with a judge prohibiting him from contacting anyone under 18.
Construction on Cummins Highway will pause for Labor Day and from September 4 to September 9. Crews will install curbs and begin paving bike lanes from Itasca Street to Woodhaven Street over the next few weeks. This project aims to enhance roadway safety and accessibility for cyclists.