Sign up for the Today newsletter
Get everything you need to know to start your day, delivered right to your inbox every morning.
Red Line speed restriction pops up days after line declared free of slow zones
“It’s important to note that a track issue resulting in a speed restriction may be needed from time to time — this is normal,” a T spokesperson said.
Last week, the MBTA declared the Red Line free of slow zones for the first time in at least 20 years. By Friday, however, a new speed restriction had emerged.
According to the T, a disabled train caused a track issue on part of the Red Line Friday, accounting for the new slow zone that appeared on the MBTA’s speed restrictions dashboard over the weekend.
More on the MBTA:
“The speed restriction was implemented Friday morning after the spinning wheels of a disabled train caused some kinks in the rail near Savin Hill,” MBTA spokesperson Lisa Battiston explained in a statement. “Red Line service continued to safely operate on this section of track supervised by transportation officials with track personnel making regular inspections.”
Advertisement:
The 500-foot speed restriction was removed early on Monday following weekend repairs, though it missed the 3 a.m. cutoff for the latest dashboard update.
“It’s important to note that a track issue resulting in a speed restriction may be needed from time to time — this is normal,” Battiston added. “The MBTA now expedites necessary repairs and maintenance to remove any new restrictions, so they don’t linger for months or even years, as had taken place prior to the Track Improvement Program.”
As of Monday, the MBTA’s dashboard showed only two speed restrictions remaining systemwide, both on the Green Line. To complete track work and lift those slow zones, the T plans to suspend Green Line service between Park Street and Union Square or Medford/Tufts from Dec. 6 to 20. The agency is recommending Green Line riders rely on shuttle buses, regular MBTA bus routes, and other subway lines during the shutdown.
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