Next month’s MBTA work schedules don’t include late-night service
“Given the service’s uncertain future, this is a prudent and sensible step to take at this time,’’ an MBTA spokesman said.
Although the planned vote on its future hasn’t been held yet, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s late-night service that keeps trains running until 2 a.m. appears to be coming to a close next month.
MBTA drivers choosing their work shifts for March 19 and beyond were not allowed to pick up times after 12:30 a.m., a union official told The Boston Globe.
“Given the service’s uncertain future, this is a prudent and sensible step to take at this time,’’ MBTA spokesman Joe Pesaturo said. “If bus and train operators pick work today that doesn’t exist in the spring, they are still entitled to be paid for it.’’
The MBTA’s Fiscal and Management Board has previously signaled it would cut late-night service in an attempt to save between $10 million and $14.8 million.
But the actual vote that will decide its future isn’t until February 29.
Meanwhile, the T has been hosting a series of public hearings to get feedback on late-night service, proposed fare hikes, and more.
“This isn’t about logistics, this isn’t about planning ahead,’’ Caroline Casey, a community organizer for the T Riders Union, told the Globe. “This is about the fact that this public process is a sham.’’
Pesaturo said no decision has been made at this time.
The late-night service, which began in spring 2014, extends subway trains and some buses until 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. About 13,000 people ride the late-night service each weekend night, according to MBTA figures, largely for social and work-related reasons.
To comment, please create a screen name in your profile
To comment, please verify your email address
Conversation
This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com