Massachusetts: A Section Of The Green Line Will Be Shut Down For 42 Days
If your normal travel or commuting routine involves Lechmere or Union Square Station in Somerville, be prepared. The MBTA announced that this portion of the green line will be shut down for 42 days this summer.
Starting in mid-July and going all the way through August, this subway route will be closed. “This service change is due to critical repair work by MassDOT on the Squire Bridge, which crosses over tracks near Union Square Station,” the MBTA explained in a press release. However, there are bus routes nearby both stations. This green line shutdown is set to begin on July 18.
WCVB reported, “MassDOT said the work being done to the bridge necessitates the shutdown of the Green Line’s overhead electrical power lines.” Six of the beams have deteriorated. Not repairing them would be an immediate risk.
“In order to perform the repairs, it is necessary to de-energize and temporarily move the OCS out of the way to allow MassDOT’s contractor safe and uninterrupted access,” WCVB continued.
In Other Green Line News
Unfortunately, there’s more. The B train of the green line will also be impacted this July. Shuttle buses will replace the route between Kenmore and Boston College. This is expected to last from July 17 to July 28. This is closure is to address necessary track work.
Lastly, don’t shoot the messenger, but service between Government Center and North Station will be suspended starting July 29. This is slated to be about a two-week closure.
Bus or Walk But Don’t Drive
MassDOT is not suggesting travelers drive instead of their typical subway route. With the tunnel closure, traffic is going to be impacted as well. In addition to the aforementioned bus routes, the MBTA is suggestion walking routes that are always available. You can find more information on this and the green line 42-day shutdown on the MBTA website.
