MBTA Announces Public Meetings To Discuss Single Person Train Operation On The Orange Line

Boston, Ma-The MBTA today announced a series of public meetings to discuss the expansion of Single Person Train Operation (SPTO) to the Orange Line.  Similar to Single Person Train Operation mode on the Blue Line, Orange Line motorpersons will perform all functions once shared with train attendants, including door operation and station announcements.   The MBTA has successfully operated in Single Person Train Operation mode on the Blue Line since 1996 with no degradation to safety, service, or security.

Recommended by the Federal Transit Administration as an approach to minimize operating costs, savings from Single Person Train Operation will be reinvested in improving frequency of service for customers and alleviating crowding.   

Committed to doing more with less, MBTA General Manager Richard A. Davey said, “We remain focused on identifying cost savings measures that helps us operate more efficiently.  The expansion of Single Person Train Operation to the Orange Line allows us to contain costs while maintaining quality service.” 

Since the late sixties, new transportation systems have been designed and built for Single Person Train Operation including transit systems in San Francisco, Miami, Washington, and Atlanta.   Of the six cities with subway systems existing before 1996, Boston is the fourth to convert to Single Person Train Operation. 

The MBTA has scheduled three public meetings to provide the community a forum to discuss the expansion of Single Person Train Operation to the Orange Line.  At the meeting(s), MBTA staff will provide attendees an overview of the operation, and allow for a question/answer period. 

The public is encouraged to attend and participate in a discussion regarding Single Person Train Operation.  The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. Sign language interpreters will be available.  

Wednesday, April 14, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 
State Transportation Building
10 Park Plaza, 2nd floor, Conference Rooms 2 & 3
Boston, Ma 02116

Wednesday, April 21, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Roxbury Community College
Room 121 – Lecture Hall
1234 Columbus Avenue
Boston, Ma  02120

Wednesday, April 28, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Malden Government Center
 Council Chambers, 3rd floor
200 Pleasant Street
Malden, Ma  02148

The public is encouraged to attend and participate in a discussion regarding Single Person Train Operation.  The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. Sign language interpreters will be available.

More Information