MBTA Orange Line shutdown begins amid shuttle bus error

The MBTA has begun an 11-day shutdown of the Orange Line between Oak Grove and Back Bay stations to facilitate track and signal upgrades. The work is intended to eventually allow trains to reach speeds of 55 mph as far south as Community College station.

During the closure, which runs from August 20 to August 30, transit officials are providing free shuttle buses between Oak Grove and North Station, including express options. Commuters are also advised that the Haverhill Commuter Rail line will be free between Oak Grove and North Station to assist with travel.

On the first day of the suspension, an Orange Line shuttle bus driver mistakenly drove passengers to Stoneham, approximately 10 miles away from the intended destination of North Station. The MBTA apologized for the inconvenience, stating that the matter has been addressed with the shuttle vendor and the driver is no longer working on the service.