On Green Line D-branch, Nighttime Bus Shuttles Run Between Brookline Hills and Reservoir in October

Shuttles will operate on various portions of the D-branch Sundays through Thursdays starting at 9 PM through December

In support of state-of-good-repair work on the Green Line’s track and signal systems, nighttime shuttle buses will replace Green Line D-branch trolley service between Brookline Hills and Reservoir Stations beginning at 9 PM through the end of service on these days:

Monday, October 8 – Thursday, October 11
Sunday, October 14 – Thursday, October 18

This work is the beginning of the Green Line D-branch’s Track and Signal Replacement project, aimed at replacing approximately 6.5 miles of signal infrastructure, replacing 25,000 feet of track, and replacing special track work between Beaconsfield and Riverside Stations. The project will also centralize signal equipment at D-branch stations, replace antiquated signal equipment with modern technology, and replace jointed rail with continuous welded rail. Modern signal systems are less likely to experience issues or disruptions, resulting in fewer delays and increased Green Line reliability. The upgraded infrastructure will also result in the removal of speed restrictions along the D-branch.

“This project is significant in that it marks the official start of the Green Line Transformation Program,” said MBTA General Manager Luis Manuel Ramírez. “By upgrading and modernizing our power systems, signals, and track, we are setting the Green Line on a course to enhance the frequency of service, reduce trip times, and increase passenger capacity.”

Residents living near this track work and other abutters to the area should be aware that some noise issues may occur after 9 PM and during the overnight hours. The project’s work involves cutting through rail and track with a saw or torch. Some noise may also occur as the track is later “tamped” to the proper elevation. Many efforts have been made to minimize noise levels, including using silencers or mufflers on equipment, limiting truck and equipment idling, using sound-deadening materials on trucks and equipment, using noise blankets and shielding where possible, and monitoring noise levels. To report a noise complaint or issue, the public can call the 24/7 noise hotline at 508-676-3550.

After October 18, nighttime shuttles will continue Sundays through Thursdays on various portions of the D-branch (from Brookline Hills to Riverside) into December 2018, from April 2019 through December 2019, and from April 2020 through December 2020 in order to accomplish this work. Over at least 15 weekends in 2019 and 2020, shuttle buses will also replace trolley service on various portions of the D-branch from the beginning of service Saturday to the end of service on Sunday.