MBTA Unveils 'Rider's Guide To Planning For The Future' As Orange Line Shutdown Looms

BOSTON – The MBTA has released its “detour plan” ahead of a planned 30-day shutdown of the entire Orange Line that begins next Friday.

The “Driver’s Guide to Planning Ahead” lays out some of what riders can expect when the Orange Line stops, starting at 9pm on August 19. The MBTA guide also covers the separately planned closure of the Green Line from Union Square to Government Center stations beginning Monday, August 22.

The T has begun posting detailed detour information at each of the 20 Orange Line stations detailing alternative travel options for riders who need to use the transit system during the closure.

Starting today, the T will post detailed detour information at each of the 20 Orange Line stations showing alternative travel options for riders who need to get through the transit system during the closure. (MBTA)

VARRIL RAILWAY OPTION

The MBTA encourages Orange Line riders to consider commuter rail service as an alternative to the Orange Line.

Commuter trains will make additional stops at Forest Hills, Ruggles, Back Bay, North Station, Malden Center and Oak Grove stations to accommodate Orange Line passengers affected by the bus detour. Users can show their CharlieCard or CharlieTicket to drivers to use commuter rail in Zones 1A, 1 and 2 on all commuter rail lines free of charge.

The Hyde Park – Forest Hills – Ruggles – Back Bay – South Station i Oak Grove – Malden Center – North Station Commuter train timetables are available at mbta.com.

ORANGE LINE BUSES

The T will offer free buses between Oak Grove and Haymarket/Government Center and between Forest Hills and Back Bay/Copley.

While all shuttle buses are fully ADA accessible, accessible vans will also be available for any rider who prefers van service upon request.

MBTA staff will be available at all stations to assist riders in requesting this accessible van service.

Due to free shuttle bus service, RIDE trips that start and end within ¾ mile of the Orange Line will be free for RIDE riders during the 30-day closure.

Options by station for Orange Line Riders (MBTA)

OTHER OPTIONS

Riders can use other MBTA bus and subway services to complete their trips, including the Route 39 bus, Silver Lines 4 and 5, the Green Line and others. Runners are being encouraged to check it out MBTA Trip Planner.

WORK FROM HOME

“The MBTA encourages those who can work from home to do so and the public who needs to travel, to consider alternative travel options,” according to a statement from the MBTA.

The closure of the Orange Line will have regional impacts on the transport network far beyond transit users.

Riders are also encouraged to monitor MBTA social media for the latest updates Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTubei Tik Tokto subscribe T Alerts at mbta.comand visit more information at mbta.com/BBT2022.

IMPACTS ON THE ROAD / TRAFFIC CONGESTION

Starting Monday, Aug. 15, MassDOT says commuters using all modes of transportation on the Orange Line corridor will experience increased traffic congestion as a result of roadway modifications needed to support buses of the MBTA.

“Modifications will occur at numerous points along the shuttle routes and range from reconfiguration of travel and turn lanes, pavement work, installation of designated bus lanes at various locations and changes to weather from traffic signals to multiple intersections,” according to T.

“After the total closure of the Orange line, regional traffic congestion is expected to increase substantially,” says the T.

Travelers are advised to avoid driving in the area altogether, work from home if possible, and “consider rescheduling non-essential travel in the area or, for necessary travel, expect traffic congestion and significant delays”.

PRIOR COVERAGE

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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