Building a Better T 2022
Updated August 05, 2022
We are accelerating several projects—including safety, hiring, and infrastructure improvements—that will make the T better and more reliable for riders.
As part of the Building a Better T program, we will address priority FTA directives and complete multiple improvement projects a year faster than originally planned.
Read the August 3 press release about Orange Line work
Read the August 5 press release about the Green Line Extension
Orange Line Track and Signal Upgrades
During the 30-day Orange Line shutdown (9 PM, August 19 – September 18) we’re accelerating track and signal improvements. This will result in improved safety, faster travel times, and fewer unplanned stops.
GLX Medford Branch
Shuttles will replace service between Government Center and Union Square August 22 – September 18. During this diversion, crews will complete work that is critical for opening the Medford Branch in November 2022.
Service Changes
See the most up-to-date service impacts on our Alerts page.
Prioritizing Federal Transit Administration Directives
This 30-day shutdown will accomplish multiple Safety Management Inspection (SMI) items:
- Track repairs eliminate Orange Line slow zones and prevent unplanned disruptions
- Implementation of Maintenance of Way work plan (replacing track, ties, ballast)
Read the August 3 press release to learn more about ongoing safety initiatives
Expediting Recruitment
We're prioritizing hiring in a number of key areas, including for heavy rail dispatchers in the Operations Control Center (OCC).
These initiatives focus on recruiting current operations staff as well as new applicants. The MBTA has:
- Authorized a $10,000 sign-on bonus
- Expanded of the MBTA’s pool of eligible internal candidates
- Initiated a hiring blitz that began at the end of last month
Allowing Full Access to Government Center Garage
The MBTA is in continuous communication with the HYM Investment Group. The demolition of Government Center Garage would typically require a closure. This 30-day closure will provide an opportunity for HYM Investment Group to complete demolition without further service impacts.
Orange Line Track and Signal Upgrades
During the 30-day Orange Line shutdown (9 PM, August 19 – September 18) we’re accelerating track and signal improvements. This will result in improved safety, faster travel times, and fewer unplanned stops.
GLX Medford Branch
Shuttles will replace service between Government Center and Union Square August 22 – September 18. During this diversion, crews will complete work that is critical for opening the Medford Branch in November 2022.
Service Changes
See the most up-to-date service impacts on our Alerts page.