MBTA Green Line Upgrades Safety After Work Blitz
MBTA installs collision-avoidance tech and replaces 130-year-old equipment on Green Line
MBTA Completes Green Line Safety System Work
Boston's MBTA wrapped up major infrastructure improvements on Green Line B, C, and D branches after nine days of shuttle bus service, transit officials said. The work included installing collision-avoidance technology and replacing 130-year-old overhead equipment with modern materials. Crews completed the improvements between April 15-23, with additional work finishing April 25-26.
Safety System Aims to Prevent Collisions
The Green Line Train Protection System represents a significant safety upgrade for the nation's oldest subway system, according to the transit agency. The GLTPS will combine vehicle and wayside equipment to avoid train-on-train collisions and incorporate speed enforcement for safer trips. Transit agencies nationwide have been installing similar positive train control systems following federal safety mandates. The technology automatically slows or stops trains that exceed speed limits or approach other trains too closely.
Extensive Infrastructure Replacements Completed
Crews replaced 130-year-old wooden overhead catenary wire troughs near the Green Line portal with modern fiberglass protection troughs during the service suspension. Grade crossing upgrades were completed at South Street, Boston College, and the Lake Street Yard. Communications software upgrades took place at Babcock Street and Amory Street stations. Work near Blandford Street prepared infrastructure for the arrival of new Type 10 Green Line vehicles, which will replace the system's aging fleet.
Nine-Day Service Suspension Enabled Work
The improvements took place during nine consecutive days of shuttle bus service replacement between Kenmore and Boston College from April 15-23. Additional work occurred during the weekend of April 25-26 when shuttle buses replaced service between Copley and Boston College on the B branch, St. Mary's on the C branch, and Brookline Hills on the D branch. Crews performed switch repairs, tunnel inspections, station cleaning, and maintenance throughout the suspension area.
Regular Service Resumes on All Branches
Green Line riders can now use regular train service on all three branches following the completion of the infrastructure work. The GLTPS installation will continue in phases as the system expands the safety technology across the network. Moovit provides real-time updates for MBTA Green Line service, helping riders navigate schedule changes and plan trips across Boston's transit system.
