The MBTA has released it’s service plan for the big Blizzard of 2018. Our advice is avoid the T at all cost and stay home! See release below:
The MBTA is preparing for the next weather system forecast to hit parts of the MBTA service area Monday night and throughout the day Tuesday with predicted blizzard-like conditions, high snow totals, and very high winds. As this weather is expected to have an effect on service, the MBTA is taking proactive measures to protect critical infrastructure and vehicles while continuing to provide service.
The MBTA Commuter Rail will operate an “Extremely Reduced Schedule” on all lines for the duration of service on Tuesday. Commuter Rail schedules will be updated on mbta.com to reflect changes in train times with schedules available in South, North, and Back Bay Stations. Customers are encouraged to check the MBTA website, sign up for T-Alerts, and follow the commuter rail on Twitter @MBTA_CR for the latest updates on service changes.
The Red, Orange, Blue, and Green Lines will operate with reduced frequency that is similar to a Saturday schedule, meaning seven to ten minutes between trains (depending on the line). The Wollaston Station bus shuttle that operates all day to and from North Quincy, Wollaston, and Quincy Center due to Wollaston’s closure will continue to operate.
The Mattapan Trolley Line will be replaced with dedicated shuttle bus service for the entire day tomorrow. The MBTA takes this pro-active step to protect the 70-year-old trolley cars from weather-related damage.
While the MBTA is not planning any changes to the RIDE operations, customers are encouraged to be mindful that snowy conditions may impact driving conditions. In addition, snow accumulation may affect drivers’ ability to gain safe access to locations not plowed or shoveled.
Lastly, based on weather conditions, all ferry service will be suspended for the entire day tomorrow.
These decisions have been made in an effort to run an adequate level of service while positioning the MBTA to expedite storm recovery efforts. A reduced schedule allows the MBTA to protect vehicles and equipment in advance of Wednesday.
Regular weekday bus service is scheduled on Tuesday, but some buses will most likely operate on their designated Snow Routes. To find a list of buses with Snow Routes, customers are urged to visit www.mbta.com/winter where these routes are listed.
Because of the timing of the storm, the MBTA is advising customers to plan ahead and allow for additional travel time during their morning and evening commutes on Tuesday. Customers are strongly encouraged to use caution on platforms and bus stops, to stay safe in cold air temperatures, and to check local weather forecasts for updated storm information.
As delays and service changes may occur, customers continue to be urged to connect with the MBTA by visiting the MBTA website’s Winter Weather page, signing up for and checking T-Alerts, downloading the Transit app, and following the T on Twitter @MBTA as well as the Commuter Rail at @MBTA_CR where all service updates and the most up-to-date service information will be provided.
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.