MBTA Extends Blue Line Track Work Through April 30

During the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Board of Directors meeting today, it was announced that there will be an extension on the access window for the planned Blue Line closure. The shift from the previously anticipated completion date of April 28 to the newly set target date of April 30 will provide crews with an additional two days to finalize the work required to lift 16 speed restrictions currently in place on the Blue Line.

The Blue Line work, which began April 17, is aimed at improving the safety, reliability, and overall performance of the MBTA’s Blue Line service as part of the Track Improvement Program. The project involves full depth track construction, truck pad construction, rail replacement, tie replacement, surface line and tamping, and plate securing, among other critical work.

“Our top priority is ensuring the safety and reliability of our transit system for our riders,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “Understanding that the conditions of our infrastructure have impacted riders for far too long, the Track Improvement Program was established to deliver these critical repairs sooner, removing speed restrictions while performing additional state of good repair work in parallel. We are committed to performing this work on the Blue Line safely and properly and thank the public and the community at large for their patience as we give our teams and contractors the time they need to complete this long deferred work.”

The MBTA has been working closely with its partners and stakeholders to minimize disruptions to service during the project. Alternative transportation options include free and accessible shuttle buses making stops at all stations and accessible vans in place to accommodate riders during the extended work period. Riders can learn more at mbta.com/BlueLine.

The important work accomplished during this Blue Line service suspension means riders will experience a more reliable trip with fewer unplanned service disruptions related to older tracks, older infrastructure, signal issues, or power problems. Riders will also be provided with a safer ride as a result of this state of good repair work. The lifting of the 16 speed restrictions will allow trains to operate at optimal speeds, reducing travel times and enhancing the overall rider experience.