Boston tests battery trains to expand electrification and transit access
A new fleet of battery-powered trains in Boston will test whether transit agencies can electrify rail networks without relying on overhead wires.
HEROIC BREAKING NEWS, written by our newsroom0 views
A new fleet of battery-powered trains is set to begin testing in Boston to determine if commuter rail networks can electrify without installing expensive overhead wires, Grist reported. The effort seeks to modernize regional transit while improving access for local residents. [1]
The push for improved service on the Fairmount Line into downtown Boston began after local advocate Marvin Martin noticed trains bypassing communities of color, Grist reported. In 1995, Martin and fellow community members began campaigning for expanded service from the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority. [1]
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority commuter rail system operates across 429 miles of track on 12 lines, serving 143 stations. The network is operated under contract by Keolis. [2]
Following more than 15 years of community advocacy, the transit authority added three new stops in Dorchester in 2012 and 2013, Grist reported. A fourth stop was later opened in Mattapan to expand service for residents. [1]
In short
- Battery-powered trains are testing electrification in Boston without overhead wires.
- Marvin Martin and local advocates began campaigning for fair rail access in 1995.
- The transit authority added three stations in Dorchester in 2012 and 2013, followed by a fourth in Mattapan.
- The MBTA Commuter Rail operates over 429 miles of track across 143 stations.
Sources
Every paragraph above points to the numbered items it rests on. Read the originals here.
- [1]The future of commuter rail could be taking shape in BostonGrist, 3h ago (the report this story comes from)
Background
- [2]MBTA Commuter Rail on Wikipedia
- [3]Boston on Grokipedia
Our newsroom writes these reports with the help of software, from the 3 sources listed and nothing else, and checks them against those sources. Facts can still be wrong or move on; the originals are the record. Spotted a mistake? Write to daniel@monsterkong.com.
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