MBTA Green Line Extension Faces Major Setback with Track Problems
In a series of unfortunate events, the MBTA Green Line Extension suffered another disruption on Friday afternoon, causing the entire train service to be shut down. The cause of the shutdown was attributed to a problem with the overhead electrical system. It took crews approximately four hours to repair a segment of the overhead catenary system, during which time some passengers were forced to walk along the tracks and evacuate the trains.
This recent incident comes as no surprise for riders of the Green Line Extension, who have been plagued with shutdowns and slow zones in recent months. The track problems have been linked to construction defects, specifically issues with the wood supports and metal plates that hold the rails in place. Furthermore, geometry scans have revealed areas of the track that do not meet the required gauge for full speed travel.
MBTA general manager, Phillip Eng, has expressed the need for extensive repairs, estimating that around 80 percent of the Medford branch and 50 percent of the Union Square branch will require attention. The magnitude of the track problems has shocked advocates and other observers, who are now demanding accountability from the consortium of construction companies involved.
In response to the recurring issues, new leadership has been installed over the Green Line Extension. Efforts are being made to address the problems and restore trust with riders. However, Governor Maura Healey has criticized the previous administration for not disclosing the track issues, while former governor Charlie Baker denies any knowledge of the problems.
Meanwhile, riders on the Green Line Extension are expressing their frustration and disbelief over the track issues and the ever-increasing cost of the project. With each setback, faith in the extension’s completion wavers, raising concerns about its feasibility and overall impact.
As riders anxiously await a resolution to the ongoing track problems, it remains unclear how long it will take to fully rectify the issues and restore reliable service to the Green Line Extension.
“Zombie enthusiast. Subtly charming travel practitioner. Webaholic. Internet expert.”