Boston MBTA Adapts Lowell Line Service Amid Disruption

MBTA Lowell Line train rerouted to start at Anderson/Woburn due to police activity near North Billerica

MBTA Lowell Train Rerouted After Police Issue

MBTA Lowell Line riders faced service changes Saturday afternoon when Train 5352 couldn't complete its normal route. The 3:22 p.m. departure from Lowell started at Anderson/Woburn instead due to police activity on tracks near North Billerica, transit officials said. Passengers at three stations between Lowell and Anderson/Woburn needed alternate ways to reach the train, though officials didn't say how many riders were affected.

Transit agencies routinely adjust service when police activity blocks track access, following standard safety protocols. The MBTA arranged shuttle buses between affected stations, though specific pickup times and frequencies weren't immediately available. Anderson/Woburn serves as a major park-and-ride facility on the Lowell Line, making it a logical alternate starting point with infrastructure to handle increased passenger volume. The 25.4-mile Lowell Line connects nine stations between Boston's North Station and Lowell.

The service change affected passengers planning to board at Lowell, North Billerica, and Mishawum stations. Officials didn't disclose the nature of the police activity in the North Billerica area, which is typical during active investigations. Shuttle bus service was arranged to transport affected passengers to Anderson/Woburn to catch Train 5352, though details about shuttle schedules weren't provided in the initial alert. The MBTA classified the disruption as high severity.

The disruption began Saturday afternoon with the 3:22 p.m. scheduled departure, but officials haven't announced when normal service will resume. The timeline for restoration depends on resolution of the police activity, and the MBTA didn't provide an estimated timeframe for when trains would return to their regular Lowell starting point. Transit officials said passengers should expect delays and plan extra travel time.

Affected riders should check with station staff for current shuttle bus information and service updates. The MBTA hasn't said whether subsequent Lowell Line trains will face similar disruptions or when the investigation will conclude. Passengers can monitor real-time service information through Moovit, which provides updates for MBTA Commuter Rail routes including the Lowell Line. Officials advised travelers to allow extra time and check for updates before heading to stations.