Red Line Back To Pre-Derailment Service: MBTA

BOSTON — The Red Line is back. The MBTA announced Wednesday that both the Braintree and Ashmont branches are back to speeds and service levels commuters were used to before the June derailment.

The June 11, prompted delays across the MBTA system and raised concern about fare increases. In response to loud criticism, the MBTA had crews focus on repairs to track and power systems in JFK/UMass Station where the train derailed. It was slow going and it meant keeping trains to slower speeds. The MBTA told the public at the time it hoped to be back to speed around Labor Day.

"We know this has been a trying few months for our Red Line riders. That is why we are pleased to announce the full restoration of service as of September 23. The Red Line is now back to its pre-derailment service levels across the Line," the MBTA tweeted Wednesday.

Over the course over the three months of repair, crews rebuilt three signal bungalows and added a new bungalow. They fixed 20 miles of signal cable and hundreds of signal control relays, according to the MBTA.

"This means we're back to the standard 28 trains at rush hour running every 4-5 mins, automatic switching, & countdown clocks with real-time predictions," the MBTA tweeted.

The MBTA is investing some $350 million for signal system upgrades and plans to spend $470 million for track and maintenance in addition to delivering some 252 new, modern cars.

Catch up:

• After 4 Train Derailments In 2019, System Still 'Safe' (June 11)
• MBTA Fare Increase 'Unfair' Until Red Line Is Fixed ... (June 17)
• Red Line To Be Back To Speed By Labor Day: MBTA - (June 27)
• Red Line Derailment Video Released By MBTA: Watch (July 19)
• This Broken Axle Caused The Red Line Derailment In June (Sept 16)

Patch reporter Jenna Fisher can be reached at Jenna.Fisher@patch.com or by calling 617-942-0474. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram (@ReporterJenna).