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11/10/2023
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has launched a track-improvement program initiative aimed at eliminating all existing speed restrictions and bringing tracks closer to a state of good repair by the end of 2024.
The program is part of the MBTA’s broader efforts to "Rebuild, Restore and Reimagine" the public transit system, MBTA officials said in a news release.
The MBTA's new program to fix the tracks will involve spot repairs, tie replacements, and rail and ballast replacement. More than 27,900 railroad ties and 124,880 feet of track will be revitalized to improve safety and reliability, and more than 208,000 feet of tamping work will be completed.
The authority plans to expand its engineering teams and hire specialized rail contractors to execute the work efficiently, MBTA officials said. Work will be performed during nights, weekends and shutdown periods to minimize service and project cost impacts.
"By restoring our tracks, we are addressing the root causes of the speed restrictions that have accumulated over decades," said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. "Our efforts to rebuild track infrastructure across the Red, Orange, Blue and Green Lines will improve train speeds substantially, reduce delays and disruptions, enhance safety and deliver timely, reliable and consistent service for riders."