“West-east” rail, for state Rep. William “Smitty” Pignatelli, is more than a catchphrase. Unless work for Pittsfield-to-Boston passenger rail begins in Western Massachusetts, the Lenox Democrat says, he does not expect to board that train in his lifetime.

Supporters of east-west passenger rail in Massachusetts hope the project can receive money through the newly signed federal infrastructure bill. Yet, some question whether the state is committed to the Springfield-to-Pittsfield leg of the journey.