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Boston Weekly Updates

November 12, 2020

    Take a look at the upcoming changes for a better MBTA!

    👉Green line extensions project 

    👉Vote for upcoming service changes 

    Green Line Extension (GLX)

    The Green Line Extension (GLX) will extend the northern end of the Green Line from Lechmere to Union Square in Somerville and College Avenue in Medford.

    GLX will provide service in areas that historically did not have access to fast and reliable public transit. By supporting an increased ridership of more than 50,000 trips per day, this project will significantly reduce vehicle emissions on the road.

    What to Expect During Construction

     Green Line Service Changes

    Since May 24, 2020, Green Line service has been shut down at Lechmere and Science Park stations for approximately one year while crews work on the Lechmere Viaduct Rehabilitation in conjunction with Green Line Extension work.

    During this time, dedicated inbound and outbound bus lanes along Charles River Dam Road work to connect Lechmere and North Station, providing continued service for 14,000 Green Line riders.

    See service alerts for Green Line E branch

     Commuter Rail Service Changes

    Through November 2020, weekend Commuter Rail service will shut down along various portions of the Lowell Line to support this work. Shuttles will replace trains during this time.

    See service alerts for the Lowell Line

    Bridge Closures

    Work is being done near major bridges in Somerville. Impacts include bridge closures and some detours:

    LocationStatusSchedule
    Washington Street Bridge/UnderpassOpenReopened May 31, 2020.
    Broadway BridgeOpenReopened June 6, 2020.
    Medford Street BridgeClosedWork is ongoing. Expected to reopen in spring 2021.
    School Street BridgeClosedWork is ongoing. Expected to reopen in spring 2021.

    Learn more about bridge closures and detours

    Project Features

    • A new Green Line branch on existing Lowell Commuter Rail tracks, from Lechmere to Medford
    • A new Green Line branch on existing Fitchburg Commuter Rail tracks, from Lechmere to Union Square in Somerville
    • The relocation and reconstruction of Lechmere Station in Cambridge, plus 6 new additional T stations
    • A new vehicle storage and maintenance facility

    Rider Benefits

    • Create additional transportation routes in the Medford and Somerville neighborhoods
    • Reduce the number of vehicles on local roads to improve traffic concerns
    • Support municipal plans for sustainability and urban redevelopment

    Forging Ahead

    Challenged by unprecedentedly low ridership due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the MBTA is facing a historic moment.

    In 2019, MBTA riders took 1.26 million daily trips. In October 2020, riders are taking around 330,000 daily trips—or 26% of daily ridership compared to 2019.

    MBTA is making service changes to their lines and they want to hear from YOU. 

    “Reducing service is a difficult topic, we welcome your feedback on the proposed changes and how to prioritize adding back service.

    Want to share your feedback on our approach? Have detailed input about a specific rail line or route you use?|


    Safe Travels, 

    The Moovit Team

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