City

How to commute during the MBTA shutdowns

August 15, 2022 • 
Sara Frazier

With two unprecedented MBTA shutdowns just around the corner, we want to help our fellow transit riders stay on the right track. Here’s what to know to prepare for the upcoming Orange and Green Line closures.

In case you missed it, the transit agency is shutting down the entire Orange Line for 30 days from Fri., Aug. 19-Sun., Sept. 18 to replace track and upgrade signal systems.

Refer to the MBTA's guide to alternative travel, broken down by each Orange Line Station. | Image via MBTA

Refer to the MBTA’s guide to alternative travel, broken down by each Orange Line Station. | Image via MBTA

Then, a portion of the Green Line will close from Mon., Aug 22-Sun., Sept. 18 so crews can complete construction work prior to opening the Medford branch. There will be no service between Government Center + Union Square.

The MBTA released the Rider’s Guide to Planning Ahead, outlining the alternative service options:

  • Commuter Rail — trains will make additional stops at Forest Hills, Ruggles, Back Bay, North Station, Malden Center + Oak Grove stations. Just show your CharlieCard or CharlieTicket to ride in Zones 1A, 1, and 2 for free.
  • Shuttle buses — board one of the free shuttle buses running between Oak Grove and Haymarket/Government Center, or between Forest Hills and Back Bay/Copley.
  • Regular buses — don’t forget about the MBTA bus service, as there might be a regular bus route along your commute.
  • Bluebikes — the City of Boston is offering free 30-day Bluebike passes. Get ready to pedal and find the bike station closest to you.

Plus, the MBTA is adding a stop to the Silver Line 4 outbound route at the Surface Artery and Kneeland Street stop to help serve the Chinatown community. View the animated graphic for step-by-step shuttle stop information.

Image via MBTA

Share this story with a Boston friend so nobody’s stuck without transportation. | Image via MBTA

If you were thinking of driving to work, local officials encourage you to think again. Capacity will be effectively cut in half on many streets to make room for new bus lanes and shuttle parking. Plus, area highways will be even busier than usual.

The following streets will be closed:

  • State Street between Congress and Washington streets
  • Dartmouth Street between St. James and Boylston streets
  • Washington Street (northbound) between Arborway and Williams Street

Be sure to monitor the MBTA’s social media for the latest updates and subscribe to T-Alerts to find out about any additional service changes.