MBTA Orange Line service resumes after garage collapse

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) Orange Line trains have returned to service after the partial collapse of a parking garage. The line travels beneath the location of the incident. 

The Orange Line resumed service between North Station and Back Bay Station after the authority’s team of structural engineers completed a comprehensive inspection of the infrastructure and subsequent testing of trains in the tunnels.  

Trains will continue to bypass Haymarket Station in both directions until further notice. Green Line service remains suspended between North Station and Government Center. 

The current shuttle bus service replacing the Green Line between North Station and Government Center Station continued through the end of service March 29. As of March 30, the shuttle buses will be discontinued because the Orange Line alternative is faster due to the difficulty in navigating buses through crowded streets and heavy traffic. Green Line customers are instead encouraged to use parallel Orange Line service beginning at the start of service March 30 until further notice.  Green Line customers can make underground transfers to the Orange Line at both North Station and Park Street Station.  

Because most of the debris stemming from the partial garage collapse came down on the surface directly above the Green Line, structural engineers continue an intensive examination and assessment of the tunnels used by Green Line trains. Green Line service between North and Government Center Stations will remain suspended while this important work continues.  Above the Green Line tunnel, MBTA personnel are on site, and working jointly with accident investigators and the developer's debris removal team.  

For Haymarket Station-bound bus riders will return to Haymarket Station with the resumption of Orange Line Service. Routes 92 and 93 have already returned to Haymarket as well.  Accessibility vans will be available upon request at Haymarket and North Station – please speak with MBTA personnel for more information. 

Orange Line customers who intended to use Commuter Rail services should note that, beginning at the start of service March 30, CharlieCards will no longer be accepted on board the Commuter Rail and fare payment will be required for access. 

Extra MBTA personnel and Transit Ambassadors will continue to be on hand to assist customers this week.