MBTA's Bold Plan: Eliminating Slow Zones Through Extensive Subway Shutdowns by 2024

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has unveiled a plan to eliminate slow zones and improve travel times by implementing targeted closures on specific segments of the subway system. The plan includes multi-day closures on various branches, with the goal of lifting all speed restrictions by the end of 2024. The recent successful closure of the Ashmont branch served as a model for future repairs. The MBTA aims to remove 39 more slow zones before the end of 2023, resulting in a 20-minute improvement in travel times across all lines. A tentative schedule for closures in 2024 was also shared, subject to adjustments.