Getting around Boston is about to get a bit trickier for some commuters in October. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has announced a series of service suspensions to allow for safety upgrades and signal improvements on both the Green and Orange lines. If you find yourself a regular rider on these lines, you'll want to brace for minor inconveniences and plan for longer trips.
For Green Line travelers, the MBTA aims to install the new Green Line Train Protection System (GLTPS), which is intended to prevent train-on-train collisions and enforce speed regulations. This means service will be shut down from North Station to Union Square and Medford/Tufts beginning 8 PM next Friday, stretching next weekend. Shuttle buses are set to replace trains between North Station and Medford/Tufts, but Union Square riders have to make do with regular bus routes, with Route 109 being touted as the best alternative. For those needing accessibility services, they're made available at Magoun Square.
The upheaval doesn't stop there; A later suspension is planned from Kenmore to Riverside from October 24 through the end of the month. Free shuttle services will step in to connect the dots during this phase. A little tip for those embarking from Reservoir — consider the nearby Cleveland Circle on the C Branch as your go-to during this period; it's a short walk away and might just save you some frustration.
The Orange Line isn't escaping the upgrade bug either. Signal work aims will be taking place and for that to happen, service will be interrupted between North Station and Forest Hills from October 11 – 13. Shuttle buses will be deployed for the duration, scooping up riders between Forest Hills and the Back Bay, also stopping at Copley on the Green Line. There won't be a direct shuttle connection between Back Bay and North Station, but the MBTA is planning to beef up Green Line services in response. Another option for travelers is to consider fare-free Commuter Rail services which hit the main points: Forest Hills, Ruggles, Back Bay, and South Station.
These service changes follow on the heels of previous alterations announced for September. The MBTA has shared all the details on their website, with in-station signage and announcements also being available for the commuting public. Riders are encouraged to sign up for T-Alerts or follow the MBTA’s social media profiles for the latest updates. With the magnitude of work underway, planning ahead and allowing for some extra journey time will prove essential.
