Shuttle buses will replace service on section of the Orange Line next week

Orange Line commuters can expect disruptions to their travel next week.

The MBTA is suspending regular service on the Orange Line between Jackson Square and North Station for four days starting Monday, March 18, for “critical” track work and infrastructure upgrades. The closure is one of a slew of previously announced, planned shutdowns the transportation agency is rolling out as part of its efforts to improve service reliability and safety.

“The important work accomplished during this Orange Line service suspension means riders will experience a more reliable trip with fewer unplanned service disruptions related to older tracks, older infrastructure, signal issues, or power problems,” the MBTA said in a statement. “Riders will also be provided with a safer ride as a result of this state of good repair work.”

Regular service will be suspended for four days and the MBTA said shuttle buses will transport riders between Jackson Square and Back Bay, making all stops. The shuttle buses will also stop at Copley Station, where the MBTA said riders can utilize the Green Line for continued service through downtown to North Station.

In addition, the MBTA said that “one accessible van” will be stationed at the Tufts Medical Center station and operate between Back Bay, Copley, Tufts Medical Center, Chinatown, Park Street, and Arlinton. 

Fare gates will be open for free travel at Jackson Square and Back Bay stations, as well as Green Line inbound at Copley. On the Commuter Line, riders can expect fare free travel between Forest Hills, Ruggles, Back Bay, and South Station, but noted that regular fares “should be purchased beyond Forest Hills.”

“The MBTA understands how these service changes affect riders’ daily travels during this period, but we are committed to improving your travels long term with more reliable, timely, and safe service,” the MBTA said. “We thank riders for their patience as we deliver this important work and for continuing to ride our system.”