MBTA announced Orange Line project is 50% complete after 2 weeks of work
The MBTA announced Friday that the Orange Line project is right on schedule after 50% of the work taking place during the 30-day shutdown is complete.
This comes two weeks after the full shut down of the Orange Line on August 19 with hundreds of shuttle buses replacing subway service through Sept. 18.
Overall, work teams have completed 44% of scheduled rail replacement, 49% of track renewal and tie replacement, 84% of special track work, and 22% of rail fastener work.
Specific projects that have been completed include crossover improvements at Ruggles station, rail welding at Forest Hills station, canopy work at Sullivan Square station and security enhancements at North Station.
MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak said during a Friday morning update, that 56 new Orange Line cars are now available for service. This means that, when service re-starts on September 19, Orange Line riders’ commutes will be on predominantly new cars. The MBTA is actively working to get a full complement of new Orange Line cars ready for the restart of service.
Poftak also said work on the Green Line is also ongoing and is “progressing well.”
55% of our planned work is now done as we near the halfway mark of the Orange Line 30-day diversion. Watch a recap to see upgrades we’ve made so far including replacing 6,860ft of rail & 1,925ft of full-depth tracks, plus opportunity projects across the line.#BuildingABetterT pic.twitter.com/5ymNf8JHT5
— MBTA (@MBTA) September 2, 2022
The agency said they are now getting ready for increased traffic next week as the start of the school year for Boston Public Schools on September 8.
Click here for a new rider’s guide that has been created specifically for students.
More Orange Line coverage:
How to plan your MBTA trip during the Orange Line shutdown
Ready for gridlock? Maps show roads that will see severe congestion during Orange Line shutdown
MBTA General Manager defends Orange Line shutdown
Boston workers frustrated by MBTA’s alternative routes during Orange Line shutdown
Some mayors not endorsing Orange Line shutdown
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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