BOSTON— Major disruptions are set to hit the Green Line as the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority embarks on a two-week shutdown starting Monday. The T will halt service from North Station to Babcock Street, Kenmore, and Heath Street to replace century-old wooden troughs that house vital electrical wiring.

This extensive closure, from December 8 to December 22, is part of a massive overhaul aimed at upgrading safety and reliability for the beleaguered transit line. The 100-plus-year-old troughs are relics from the 1880s, and their removal is crucial for modernizing the Green Line's infrastructure.

During these 15 days, riders can expect shuttle buses and alternative transit options, including commuter rail and Orange Line service. Free and accessible shuttle service to Back Bay will be provided, allowing passengers to transfer downtown on the Orange Line. In a bid to ease the inconvenience, free fares will also be available on the Worcester Line of the Commuter Rail between South Station and Lansdowne during the shutdown.

MBTA CEO and General Manager Phillip Eng emphasized the necessity of these upgrades, stating that they are part of a broader strategy to make public transit more appealing. "That is going to bring people back. We’re seeing that little by little, every month," he remarked, noting that ridership in October reached its highest level since the pandemic began.

While this significant service interruption is designed for long-term benefits, it raises questions about the MBTA’s ongoing struggles with delays and reliability. The T's commitment to modernizing signals, inspecting tunnels, and brightening stations is a clear response to pressures from frustrated commuters seeking safer and more dependable transportation options. Will these efforts be enough to regain the trust of the riding public? Only time will tell.