New Fitchburg Line Schedule Takes Effect May 3
Regional rail style service expands to Fitchburg Line with train service every hour
BOSTON – April 28, 2021 – The MBTA and Keolis Commuter Services (Keolis), the agency’s operating partner for Commuter Rail, are reminding customers of the upcoming schedule change for the Fitchburg Line that will better meet the evolving needs of passengers. Following the installation of rail safety technology known as Positive Train Control (PTC), the Fitchburg Line’s new Spring 2021 schedule will take effect on Monday, May 3. This regional rail style of service has been in effect across all other Commuter Rail lines since April 5.
The Spring 2021 schedule provides more trains during the middle of day, offering more consistent service options, and is a significant service increase compared to the current Winter Schedule that has been in effect since December 2020. Shuttle bus service that has been in place between Littleton and Alewife during PTC installation will end when new Fitchburg Line schedules go into effect on May 3.
Service on the Fitchburg Line will now operate hourly, with trains departing Wachusett Station every hour at 25 minutes after the hour. This service pattern encourages ridership growth with increased and regular frequency as well as ease of trip planning thanks to train times evenly spaced throughout the entire day. Outbound service from North Station will operate every hour on the half hour all day.
Responding to rider feedback, weeknight service after 9 p.m. is preserved as part of the schedule change. Bicycles will continue to be permitted on all trains across all lines as part of the Spring 2021 schedule.
Seating in all coach cars on all trains will continue to be available to allow for social distance between passengers. Passengers are reminded that face coverings are required when riding any MBTA service or when in stations, to stay home if they are feeling unwell and to wash their hands frequently. In addition to regular cleaning, trains are sanitized every 24 hours and many as frequently as every 12 hours. For additional information, please visit mbta.com/coronavirus or mass.gov/COVID19.
