The MBTA has initiated a 16-day closure of the Red Line’s Ashmont Branch and the entire Mattapan Line in order to carry out major track improvements. The decision to close the lines was made in order to address safety and reliability issues in this stretch of the Red Line. The track in this area is one of the oldest in the system, and the closure will allow crews to replace rails, ties, and ballasts to enhance reliability and reduce the need for maintenance. Following the completion of the work, 28 speed restrictions in the area will be alleviated.
To ensure seamless transportation for passengers, shuttle bus service will be provided from JFK/UMass through Ashmont and Mattapan Stations. The buses will continuously run along both affected lines, eliminating the need for passengers to switch buses for end-to-end travel. Additionally, the MBTA has announced that travel on the Fairmount Commuter Rail Line will be free during the 16-day closure. The decision to close these lines for necessary improvements follows the success of a recent 12-day closure of the Green Line’s B Branch, which served as a model for the plan.
In conclusion, the closure of the Red Line’s Ashmont Branch and the Mattapan Line for 16 days will allow for crucial track improvements aimed at enhancing safety and reliability. The overhaul involves replacing rails, ties, and ballasts along one of the oldest stretches of track in the system. Following the completion of the work, numerous speed restrictions will be alleviated, improving overall efficiency. Shuttle bus service will be available for passengers and will run continuously along both affected lines, streamlining transportation. Additionally, the closure comes with the bonus of free travel on the Fairmount Commuter Rail Line. This temporary shutdown takes inspiration from the successful 12-day closure of the Green Line’s B Branch.
