Electrification and Rail Renovation with Battery-Powered Trains Successfully Completed on the Fairmount Line

Keolis Commuter Services, the MBTA’s commuter rail operations and maintenance partner, has taken a significant step toward retrofitting Boston’s Fairmount Line with battery electric trains. More than 28 miles of rail track have been renewed along the service line, making this major renewal program a success. The focus of the work was to modernize the line and lay a foundational foundation for reducing air pollution in the environmental justice corridor.

Fairmount Line Rail Renewal Program Completed at Record Speed— The project, which started in June and had a budget of 12 million dollars, was among the MBTA’s most comprehensive rail works. Crews replaced approximately 45,000 meters of track in a single attempt, a volume of replacement that typically takes a year. The project was completed quickly, while train services continued uninterrupted even during peak passenger hours.

As of December 1, the line was closed for most of the day. 30 minute tripswill work with. Due to additional Amtrak repair work on the Providence/Stoughton and Franklin/Foxboro lines, schedules will remain in current order until further notice.

Electrification Era with Battery Electric Trains— The MBTA board approved Keolis Commuter Services’ proposal to electrify the Fairmount Line with battery-electric trains in July 2024. These BEMU trains will be able to operate with batteries stored on them instead of receiving energy through overhead lines; Thus, it will adapt to electrified regions without being dependent on the existing infrastructure. Track renewal works constitute the first critical step in putting these new trains into service.

When trains come into service, Fairmount Linearound in the environmental justice corridorIt is aimed to significantly reduce air pollution. To passengers faster, quieter and more reliablea journey will be offered; A comfortable travel experience will be provided by reducing noise and vibrations. Improvements such as cleaning, drainage improvements and graffiti removal have also been carried out at stations, improving the overall passenger experience.