Boston's transit riders should prepare for a significant service interruption on the Green Line starting November 4. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority has announced that there will be no Green Line service between Park Street and Union Square, and from Medford/Tufts, starting at 8 PM on that Tuesday, until the end of service on November 13. This shutdown is to allow for the installation of the new Green Line Train Protection System infrastructure, promised to increase safety by preventing train-on-train collisions and implementing speed enforcement measures.
Commuters are advised to allow for extra travel time during this 10-day span. A free shuttle bus service will be operating to somewhat alleviate the hassle, replacing trains between North Station and Medford/Tufts. However, riders are encouraged to budget significantly more time for their journeys—upwards of an additional 45 minutes on top of their regular commute—when using these shuttle services. Conversely, there will be no direct shuttle services available between Park Street and North Station, as travelers are directed to use the parallel Orange Line service for downtown connections, as reported by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.
According to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority's official announcement, riders usually connecting to the Green Line at Union Square will need to find alternative routes. The Route 109 bus is suggested as the most viable option, given its status as a Frequent Bus Route providing 15-minute service or better between Union Square and East Somerville on the Medford Branch. This route also connects to Sullivan Square on the Orange Line, offering a faster option into downtown Boston. Additional bus routes, such as the 91 and 87, can also serve as alternatives for the duration of the service alteration.
Accessibility concerns are not to be overlooked, as the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority is providing an accessible van service at Magoun Square for riders in need. Requests for this service can be made on-site with personnel. For those traveling on the Cleveland Circle Branch, note that C Branch services will initiate and terminate at Kenmore during the service change. Transit Ambassadors and Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority staff will be present to render information and assistance, and passengers are urged to subscribe to T-Alerts or follow the MBTA on Twitter for real-time updates. This is part of a concerted effort by the MBTA to ensure that riders are not left stranded or uninformed amidst the ongoing service enhancements.
