For the first time in 65 years, communities in southeastern Massachusetts will have rail service to downtown Boston.

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.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority has released the initial schedule for the South Coast Rail service to New Bedford and Fall River, Mass., set to begin on March 24. The debut of the new operation will feature free weekend travel and free parking through the end of April,

"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."

Southcoast Rail is holding a job fair in New Bedford on Friday. It will be held at the MassHire New Bedford Career Center on 22 Elm Street.