Green Line Track and Intersection Upgrades (2021)
Since 2020, GLT has accelerated track work and intersection upgrades across the Green Line. We replaced 10.8 miles (24% of the Green Line) of track and upgraded 14 intersections (26% of the Green Line) on the B, C, and E branches. See more details on what we accomplished in 2020 on the B Branch, C Branch, and E Branch.
In 2021, we accelerated work on the B Branch again—additional track and intersection upgrades were completed alongside work on the B Branch Station Consolidation from April to June. By doing this work simultaneously, we reduced the need for future B Branch closures.
In August 2021, we replaced tracks and improved intersections on the E Branch, accomplishing a year’s worth of work in just 27 days.
Building a Better T
As part of our $9.6 billion, 5-year capital investment plan, we're renovating stations, modernizing fare collection systems, upgrading services for our buses, subways, and ferries, and improving the accessibility of the entire system.
Why We Did This Work
Many of the Green Line tracks were over 30 years old and had reached the end of their service life. By replacing this track, we were able to lift speed restrictions across the line, saving riders time, improving safety, and providing smoother trips.
At intersections, we replaced uneven pavement with a new, smooth layer and installed accessible ramps where needed for improved rider experience, safety, and accessibility.
Work Schedule
Green Line E: Heath Street to Brigham Circle
From August 2 to August 28, crews worked 24 hours a day, seven days a week to upgrade infrastructure on the E Branch. This work included:
- Replacing 4,600 feet of track on the E Branch between Heath Street and Brigham Circle
- Installing new track, crossings, and pavement at the intersection of Tremont and Francis streets
- Improving crosswalks at Back of the Hill Station, at the ends of the Heath Street platform, and at the intersection of Heath Street & South Huntington Ave
See the July 14 public meeting presentation for more details
Green Line B: Washington Street to Kenmore
From April 17 to June 13, 2021, crews accomplished the following to deliver additional benefits to riders while the B Branch was closed as part of the B Branch Station Consolidation Project:
- Replaced 5,000 feet of track between BU Central and Kenmore and between Babcock Street and Packards Corner
- Replaced two special trackwork units at Babcock Street
- Upgraded two intersections in a busy section of Commonwealth Avenue: Cummington Mall and St. Mary's Street
All of these upgrades mean a better experience for our riders, pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers.
What to Expect if You Live in the Neighborhood
The work that occurred along the Green Line B and E branches included replacing rail and repaving intersections. The noisiest work occured when crews cut the rails with a saw or torched and tamped the track to the proper elevation.
Downloads
Past Events
Contact Information
For all queries and comments related to Green Line Track and Intersection Upgrades (2021), please contact us at GLT@mbta.com.
If you would like to report a noise issue, call the 24/7 hotline at 617-222-4100.
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Recent Updates
Related Projects
This project is one of many we're working on to ensure twice as many passengers have access to a safer, more comfortable, and more reliable Green Line by 2030.
Building a Better T
As part of our $9.6 billion, 5-year capital investment plan, we're renovating stations, modernizing fare collection systems, upgrading services for our buses, subways, and ferries, and improving the accessibility of the entire system.
Recent Updates
Related Projects
This project is one of many we're working on to ensure twice as many passengers have access to a safer, more comfortable, and more reliable Green Line by 2030.