Boston MBTA Adapts Service After Drawbridge Issue

MBTA Rockport Line Train 46 skips two stations due to unspecified drawbridge issue

MBTA Rockport Train Skips 2 Stops Dec 17

MBTA's Rockport Line Train 46 won't stop at Rockport or Gloucester stations today, forcing riders to find alternative service. The train, scheduled to depart Rockport at 1:47 p.m., will instead start at West Gloucester due to a drawbridge issue, transit officials said. The agency didn't specify which drawbridge is affected or when normal service will resume.

Alternative Service Available

Affected passengers can take Train 52, which departs Rockport at 3:17 p.m. and serves both Rockport and Gloucester stations, according to the transit agency. That's a 90-minute delay from the original Train 46 schedule. The Rockport Line runs 40.5 miles from Boston's North Station to Rockport, serving 17 stations along Massachusetts' North Shore. Drawbridge issues have caused recurring service disruptions on the line in recent years, particularly where tracks cross waterways between Boston and the coastal communities.

Limited Details on Disruption

Officials didn't disclose the specific nature of the drawbridge problem or whether it involves mechanical failure, scheduled maintenance or maritime traffic conflicts. The MBTA issued the service alert via social media on December 17 but hasn't released information about how many riders typically use Train 46 or how many passengers the disruption affects. Drawbridges on commuter rail lines must be maintained and operated in coordination with maritime traffic, which can create immediate service changes.

Same-Day Implementation

The service change took effect December 17, the same day the alert was issued. Officials haven't announced when Train 46 will resume its normal Rockport departure or how long the disruption will last. The MBTA has been working on infrastructure improvements across its commuter rail system as part of broader modernization efforts, though it's unclear whether today's drawbridge issue is related to ongoing maintenance work.

Rider Information

Passengers planning to travel from Rockport or Gloucester should confirm departure times before heading to stations. The MBTA classified the alert as high severity due to the impact on multiple stations. Riders can check Moovit for real-time updates on Rockport Line service and alternative travel options. Officials said they'll provide updates as the situation develops, though specific details about resolution timing weren't available.