Prepare for MBTA Orange and Green Line closures in Somerville

On August 18, 2022, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

The MBTA is suspending service on the entire Orange Line and part of the Green Line for one month to make necessary repairs and improvements. The Orange Line will close starting Friday, August 19, and the Green Line will close from Government Center to Union Square station starting Monday, August 22.

Since the MBTA announced these closures, City of Somerville staff have been meeting daily with MBTA and State officials to support the implementation of alternative travel options and advocate for Somerville residents and MBTA riders. Here’s what Somerville residents need to know:

How to Get Around

During the shutdowns, riders can travel via shuttle buses, enhanced Commuter Rail service, accessible shuttle vans (available by request), Bluebikes, and by connecting to other subway and bus routes.

Shuttle buses: Free accessible shuttle buses will replace Green Line service between Government Center and Union Square stations. Shuttles will also replace Orange Line service from Oak Grove to Government Center and from Forest Hills to Copley stations. The MBTA will post signage and deploy Transit Ambassadors at all stops to direct riders.
Commuter Rail: The MBTA is offering increased Commuter Rail service during the shutdown. Riders can show their CharlieCard or CharlieTicket to conductors to ride the Commuter Rail in Zones 1A, 1, and 2 at no charge.
Accessible vans: Approximately 20 wheelchair-accessible vans will be available to supplement shuttle bus service. Any rider preferring to be transported via accessible van can request to do so by speaking to MBTA personnel at each station.
Bluebikes: Free 30-day Bluebikes passes will be available during the closures for unlimited trips up to 45 minutes. Sign up starting Friday, August 19, through the Bluebikes app, or go to bluebikes.com/join and select “Monthly Membership.”

Local Travel Impacts

To help shuttle buses travel as efficiently as possible, the City is installing priority bus lanes along the shuttle routes around Assembly and Sullivan Square, retiming traffic signals at key intersections, and implementing other traffic management interventions. Temporary travel and parking restrictions will be required in Somerville along the shuttle routes to reduce shuttle delays and congestion during this period. City staff are also working closely with MassDOT officials to mitigate congestion on MassDOT roadways in Somerville. City staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the shutdown and making changes to promote safe and efficient travel.

Stay Informed

An MBTA closure of this scale is unprecedented, and conditions will likely change throughout the shutdown. Get prepared and stay informed using these resources: