Boston MBTA Adds Trains for St. Patrick's Day

MBTA adds trains on seven South Side Commuter Rail lines for March 15 parade

MBTA Adds Trains for St. Patrick's Day Parade

Boston-area commuters heading to the St. Patrick's Day Parade will have more train options on Sunday, March 15. The MBTA and Keolis Commuter Services announced modified Commuter Rail schedules to accommodate increased ridership for the South Boston parade, with schedule adjustments allowing for increased capacity across the South Side of the Commuter Rail network. The changes affect seven lines and are only in effect for that Sunday.

South Side Lines See Service Boost

The schedule modifications target lines serving areas where parade attendees typically travel from, according to the transit agency. Seven lines will operate enhanced Sunday service: Fairmount, Fall River/New Bedford, Franklin/Foxboro, Greenbush, Kingston, Providence/Stoughton, and Framingham/Worcester. Trains to and from North Station and the Needham Line will maintain their normal weekend schedules. The adjustments are designed to handle the influx of passengers traveling before and after the parade, which draws large crowds to South Boston annually.

Extra Police, Bike Ban in Effect

The MBTA Transit Police Department will significantly increase uniformed officer presence throughout the system to deter crime and respond swiftly to any incidents, officials said. Bikes, including folding bikes, aren't allowed on the MBTA at any time on the day of the parade. The agency urged riders to celebrate responsibly, leave vehicles at home, and take public transportation to festivities. Officials didn't specify how many additional officers will be deployed or provide exact train frequencies for the modified schedules.

One-Day Schedule Change Only

The service changes take effect Sunday, March 15, and return to normal operations the following day. The MBTA typically adjusts Commuter Rail schedules for major Boston events that draw significant crowds to specific neighborhoods. Officials said passengers should allow extra travel time and expect crowded conditions throughout the day. The agency released a St. Patrick's Day Guide with information on taking the T to the parade and fare payment options.

Riders Should Plan Ahead

Parade attendees can expect crowded trains and stations throughout the day, particularly on South Side lines serving routes to South Boston. Officials encouraged passengers to check schedules in advance and arrive early at stations. Moovit provides real-time updates for MBTA Commuter Rail routes, helping riders track train arrivals and plan trips around schedule modifications. The agency advised riders to purchase fares before boarding to speed up the boarding process during high-volume periods.