Boston Green Line Repairs Boost Long-Term Reliability

MBTA closes two Green Line sections for track and signal repairs through December 22

MBTA Green Line Shuts Two Sections for Repairs

Boston's Green Line closed two sections for track and signal repairs through December 22, transit officials said. The MBTA shut service from Lechmere to Union Square for nine days starting December 14 and from Government Center to Medford/Tufts for seven days starting December 16. Shuttle buses replaced train service on both segments, which include portions of the Green Line Extension that opened in 2022.

The maintenance work addressed track and signal systems on the Green Line Extension, according to the transit agency. Officials said the repairs were necessary to ensure long-term reliability and safety of the relatively new infrastructure. The Green Line serves approximately 140,000 passengers on an average weekday system-wide, though the MBTA didn't release specific ridership figures for the affected sections. Transit agencies typically schedule major maintenance during periods when they can minimize disruption while completing essential work.

The MBTA provided shuttle bus service during both closures but didn't disclose the number of buses deployed. Phillip Eng, general manager and CEO of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, oversees the agency's maintenance and capital improvement programs. The Green Line Extension spans 4.3 miles and includes the sections closed for this maintenance work. Officials didn't publicly release cost estimates for the December repair work.

Both closures ended December 22, with regular Green Line service resuming on the affected sections. The MBTA announced the maintenance work December 9, giving riders advance notice of the service changes. Officials said the timing allowed crews to complete necessary track and signal repairs while shuttle buses maintained connections for passengers. The agency typically provides several weeks' notice before major service changes, though specific details about future maintenance weren't immediately available.

Riders who use the Green Line Extension should monitor the MBTA website for information about future maintenance work, officials said. The agency posts service alerts and planned closures on its website and social media channels. Moovit provides real-time information for MBTA routes and schedules, and the app updates automatically when service changes take effect.