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MBTA Shuts Green Line Core for 15 Days to Replace Century-Old Overhead Trough

Crews will use the two-week access to replace a 19th-century overhead trough, installing train-protection plus signal upgrades to boost safety.

Overview

  • Service is suspended Dec. 8–22 between North Station and Babcock Street (B), Kenmore (C and D), and Heath Street (E) while work proceeds in the core tunnel.
  • Riders have free shuttle buses to Back Bay for Orange Line connections, fare-free Worcester Commuter Rail trips between South Station, Back Bay and Lansdowne, and accessible van service in the closed downtown segment.
  • The project swaps the original wooden catenary trough for a modern metal design and includes signal modernization, tunnel inspections, drainage and pump-room repairs, and station lighting and signage improvements.
  • MBTA is advancing installation of the Green Line Train Protection System to help prevent collisions and enforce speeds, with an initial alert-focused phase targeted for summer 2026 and automatic braking to follow.
  • Officials say the 1880s-era infrastructure has outlived its lifespan and was flagged for replacement, and they warn riders to expect delays of 20 minutes or more during the shutdown as part of a broader safety and reliability push.