Green Line Extension | City of Somerville

GLX Construction Is Underway

For detailed project information, visit the MassDOT GLX Project page.

Green Line Extension Contractors are working through final station and community path extension construction items, with the community path extension most recently projected to open in Spring 2023. (Updated Friday, February 17)

The MBTA Board of Directors shared updates on the Community Path Extension at their January 26th meeting, including the projected Spring 2023 opening date. The full meeting is available here: www.mbta.com/events/2023-01-26/board-meeting-mbta-board-directors-virtual. The GLX Community Path update begins at the 2:18:28 mark.

Somerville to Celebrate Green Line Extension Opening With Events on 12/12 & 12/17 (Updated Friday, December 9)

The MBTA has announced that passenger service on the Medford Branch of the Green Line Extension is scheduled to begin on Monday, December 12, 2022.

The Medford Branch includes East Somerville, Gilman Sq., Magoun Sq., Ball Sq., and Medford/Tufts stations. All of which are scheduled to open on the 12th.

For more information on the final phases of construction, visit the MassDOT GLX project page.

Older Updates

Updated 7/1/2022

On Friday, July 1, the Medford St. bridge at Gilman Square reopened to motor vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Please observe the new traffic pattern and use caution while navigating.

Final surface restorations and roadway striping is expected to take place later this summer.

Updated 5/14/2022

On May 14th the first Green Line trolley traveled the length of the Medford Branch from East Somerville Station to Medford/Tufts Station–a significant milestone in the construction of the Green Line Extension. Intermittent testing will continue over the coming weeks.

The MBTA is currently anticipating the branch will open for passenger service by late summer.

GLX test trolley arrives at Magoun Square Station

For more detail on upcoming planned work at each Medford Branch station, visit the MassDOT GLX project page.

Updated 3/21/2022

At 4:50 AM on March 21, 2022, the first train departed the new Union Square station in Somerville, marking the start of passenger service on the #GreenLineExtension. This historic #BuildingABetterT moment has been years in the making, so stay tuned as the celebrations continue. pic.twitter.com/iE5I7Vipin
— MBTA (@MBTA) March 21, 2022

The Union Square branch of the Green Line Extension officially opened for passenger service on March 21, 2022. Local, state, and federal leaders joined community members, MBTA employees, and transit advocates at both the newly reopened Lechmere Station and the new Union Square Station to celebrate the historic occasion.

The beginning of GLX passenger services marks a major milestone in the ongoing work to build a more sustainable Somerville and ensure equitable access to transit throughout the community.

Updated 3/3/2022

On Sunday, March 6, the MBTA will conduct an emergency-response drill involving a Green Line train near Lechmere Station. Please do not be alarmed by this event. It is being conducted for practice to help first responders prepare for emergencies on the new Green Line branch.

Here are full details from MassDOT:

Emergency Response Exercise

WHERE: Lechmere Station, Cambridge, MA

WHEN: Sunday, March 6, 2022 - 10:00 AM

CAMBRIDGE – On Sunday, March 6 at approximately 10 AM, the MBTA will conduct an emergency response drill involving a Green Line train between the newly built Lechmere and Union Square Stations. Local and regional media outlets are expected to cover this drill.

While the exercise is scheduled from approximately 10 AM to 12 PM, surrounding neighbors can expect heightened activity in the area starting as early as 7 AM. There will be regular Sunday service on the Green Line with no impacts to Green Line service. This exercise will take place in the area that is being constructed as part of the Green Line Extension (GLX) project.

The learning exercise will include a scenario in which a train is traveling outbound between Lechmere Station on the Union Square Branch. In the simulated exercise, the train is traveling faster than the posted speed and makes contact with the train directly in front of it and derails before coming to a stop. Several passengers are injured and others must evacuate the train. The exercise is designed to establish a learning environment for public safety officials to exercise emergency response plans, policies, and procedures as they pertain to a mass casualty event on a Green Line train on a new section of the viaduct. To ensure an effective exercise, subject matter experts and representatives from numerous agencies took part in the planning process and will take part in the exercise conduct and evaluation.

Agencies participating in this exercise include MBTA Operations, MBTA Transit Police, Cambridge Fire Department (CFD), Somerville Fire Department (SFD), and Medford Fire Department (MFD).

For more detailed information on GLX, visit Mass.gov/GLX or email us at info@glxinfo.com.

Updated 2/24/2022

It’s official.

It’s happening.

SAVE THE DATE: Green Line service to Union Square will begin Monday, March 21.

Celebrations are in the works – stay tuned for more details!

Updated 12/14/2021

This month, the first new Green Line cars began test runs along newly constructed tracks, another major milestone for this project.

Updated 10/30/2021

The MBTA recently announced the opening of the Union Square branch is now targeted for March.
The schedule update was attributed to challenges completing the project’s first traction power substation and other key construction and testing activities. Traction power substations provide electric power to operate the trains.
The Medford branch schedule, with a target opening in May, remains under review.

Updated 10/16/2021

In Union Square, the elevator tower connecting Prospect St. to the station platform was installed by the US2 developer. Work continues on communications, power, and electrical systems. Overnight work is likely in the coming weeks closer to McGrath Hwy.
In East Somerville, wiring and outfitting the station continues, as does construction of the Community Path, bike rack, and artwork foundation. Both sidewalks are now open at the Washington St. underpass. Night work is expected at track level between Medford St. and Cross St.
In Gilman Square, construction continues on the station, the Community Path, and the Pearl St. traction power substation. Crews are advancing the remaining work needed to get both the Medford St. and School St. bridges open to traffic later this year. Overnight, retaining wall and noise wall panel installation is possible.
In Magoun Square, the structural steel for the stair tower, pedestrian bridge, and station platform canopies are in place. Work on retaining walls and noise walls, drainage, and station and Community Path construction is ongoing. Night work is expected intermittently in the area.
In Ball Square, work is focused on track placement, utilities, and pedestrian access from Broadway. Night work is expected on the noise wall across from the station.

Updated 9/19/2021

In Union Square, work continues on and around the station platform and support structures. Overnight work on support systems or walls is likely closer to McGrath Hwy.
In East Somerville, work is ongoing on a stormwater pumping station below grade between Oliveira’s and the bridge, which will help mitigate flooding. The system will collect runoff from new storm drains beneath the roadway underpass and pump it through a new outfall system and into the Millers River.
In Gilman Square, overnight work is expected in the rail right-of-way for the next few weeks to install permanent fencing between the Commuter Rail tracks and the Green Line tracks. Work may produce elevated noise levels.
In Magoun Square, construction is active on the station platform, at track level, and on the Community Path. Concrete will be placed on the pedestrian access path from the Lowell St. bridge. Intermittent night work is expected.
In Ball Square, systems installation, track placement, utility work, and noise wall panel installation are ongoing. Crews are also working to complete the traction power substation and advancing construction on the bike storage facility.

Updated 8/15/2021

Several Green Line trolleys were recently delivered to the vehicle maintenance facility for testing, training, and commissioning in the coming months.
In Union Square, work continues on and around the station platform and supporting communications, power, and electrical systems, with overnight work expected.
In East Somerville, wiring and outfitting the station continues, and construction of the bike rack and artwork foundation is underway. Community Path construction, drainage and systems installation, and track work will all be active. Night work is likely at track level between Medford St. and Cross St.
In Gilman Square, work continues on and around the station platform, headhouses, and support systems. Community Path construction is active between School St. and Central St.
In Magoun Square, the station entrance from Lowell St. is taking shape. Track and systems work is ongoing, as is Community Path construction.
In Ball Square, crews are advancing construction on the pedestrian access from Broadway, elevator shaft, and stairs leading down to platform level. Systems personnel are placing conduit below grade and attaching the hardware needed to support system cables on overhead contact system poles. Night work is expected as crews place noise-wall panels.

Updated 7/18/2021

In Union Square, work continues on and around the station platform and supporting communications, power, and electrical systems.
Near the East Somerville station, crews are placing the second line of light rail track between the station and Medford St. bridge. Construction of the bike rack and artwork foundation are underway. Community Path construction, drainage, and systems installation are also ongoing.
In Gilman Square, a considerable amount of electrical and steel work is underway. At the School St. and Medford St. bridges, crews are advancing the remaining work on duct banks, sidewalks, and approaches to each bridge. At track level, systems installation will continue and Community Path construction is active between School St. and Central St.
In Magoun Square, the pedestrian access point from Lowell St. is advancing, and track and systems work remain active. Crews are placing a conduit trough and will be installing a barrier wall to separate the Commuter Rail tracks from the light rail tracks. Community Path construction is also progressing.
In Ball Square, steel superstructure construction on the station platform, headhouse, and walkways continues. Electrical installation remains active both on the platform and inside the neighboring Traction Power Substation. Systems personnel are continuing to place conduit below grade and attach the hardware needed to support system cables on overhead contact system poles.

Updated 6/27/2021

Several GLX updates were provided earlier this week at the joint meeting of the MassDOT Board and the MBTA Fiscal and Management Control Board. Here's the presentation, which features some before-and-after progress photos, as well as some notable construction news, including:
- Service is now projected to begin on the Union Square branch in December 2021 and on the Medford branch in May 2022
- Construction is approximately 80% complete
- 65% of new Green Line track is installed
- 10/10 elevator towers and 588/603 overhead catenary poles have been erected
In the near-term, wall panel placement will continue on the entire east/north side of the Medford branch and in the Brickbottom area off Fitchburg St. during days and at night on a sporadic basis over the next few weeks.
Work on the overhead catenary system will continue throughout the alignment, and signal and electrical work is expected in and around the station areas at night.

Updated 6/6/2021

Glass art panels are being installed at Lechmere. Take a look at the art plan for all of the stations.
Here is a fairly recent drone tour of the alignment, which provides some great overhead views of the progress made so far.

Updated 5/23/2021

Inbound and outbound track between Union Square Station and Lechmere Station has been installed and is awaiting final leveling and adjustments. Catenary pole installation along this same stretch is virtually complete, and power and communication cables are being raised into place.
In East Somerville, the station’s steel canopy roof is in place. Catenary poles have been installed and signal and communications work is ongoing. Retaining wall construction remains active up to Walnut St., and the Community Path is being built behind and on top of these walls.
In Gilman Square, the station platform and canopy roof are in place. The School St. pedestrian bridge was taken down, allowing work to move quickly ahead on the expanded bridge deck and on the elevator and stair tower that connects the bridge to the station platform. Retaining wall work continues along the sides of the rail corridor and between tracks, as does placement of noise wall panels and trenching to support systems installation.
At Magoun Square, the station platform, elevator shaft, and structural steelwork for the stair tower and platform canopies are in place. Work includes installation of retaining walls, noise panels, and drainage. Night work is scheduled intermittently for grading embankments and placing noise wall panels.
In Ball Square, the steel superstructure for the station platform and roof panels are now in place. Work on light-rail systems installation, drainage, and utilities is active in the area, as is outfitting the traction power substation.

Updated 5/2/2021

The GLX project is extending not only the Green Line but also the Community Path, adding nearly 2 miles of new off-street multiuse path between Lowell St. and Cambridge Crossing. Here are some new visuals from the City, including a map of the path extension, access points, and typical cross sections.
If you'd like a refresher on station design (how to access each platform, bike storage capacity, etc.), this GLX public meeting presentation includes some illustrations and fast facts for each stop.
Now for ongoing construction: In Union Square, a signal bungalow has been installed and work continues on catenary power, track switches, and signalization.
In East Somerville, rail placement is expected to begin soon. Retaining wall construction remains active up to Walnut St., as does systems installation and barrier construction between the commuter rail and Green Line tracks.
In Gilman Square, the School St. pedestrian bridge is expected to be removed imminently, and bridge deck construction will continue at both School St. and Medford St. A low-rise retaining wall is also being installed between the commuter rail and GLX tracks between Medford St. and Sycamore St. at night to take advantage of commuter rail outages.
At the Magoun Square station, steel structures for a headhouse and walkway to the station off of Lowell St. will take shape next. South of the station, work on the Community Path is advancing near the existing path terminus.
In Ball Square, the steel superstructure for the station platform and roof panels are now in place. Work on light-rail operational systems, drainage and utilities, and the traction power substation continues.

Updated 4/18/2021

MBTA officials recently shared that Green Line service on the new Union Square branch is tentatively expected to begin this October. Service on the Medford/Tufts branch is expected to follow in December.

They also confirmed that D trains will go to Union Square and E trains will go to Medford/Tufts.

All tracks from Lechmere to Union Square have been installed and are being leveled to their final alignment and elevation.

At the East Somerville station, work is advancing on the platform and track, and wall construction continues toward Walnut St.

In Gilman Square, Medford St. and School St. bridge deck construction is advancing, as is relocation of utilities along School St. As of now, we expect the School St. bridge to reopen in June, and the Medford St. bridge to reopen shortly after.

A low-rise retaining wall is being installed between the commuter rail and GLX tracks between Medford St. and Sycamore St. This work is being done at night to take advantage of commuter rail outages.

In Magoun Square, an elevator shaft was recently installed at the station, and retaining wall and drainage construction continues in the area.

In Ball Square, the steel superstructure for the station platform and roof panels are now in place. Light-rail systems installation is active in the area, as is drainage and utility work and outfitting the traction power substation. Work building a retaining wall between Cedar St. and Broadway is ongoing.

Updated 4/3/2021

Boston Ave. between Warner St. and Broadway is expected to be open to southbound traffic only during daytime hours until approximately mid-April to support water and sewer work for the Ball Square station.

Overnight construction activity is planned in the Gilman Square area through the month. Crews are building a small wall between the commuter line and light rail tracks. The work isn’t particularly loud but the Multipurpose Machine (a big yellow work train) will be in use, so horns and engine noise are expected.

The GLX team shared some new progress photos this past week from across the project. Station platforms are well underway, with most canopies very visible now. Pictured above is the East Somerville stop, and below is Ball Square.

Updated 3/20/2021

In Union Square, work continues on and around the platform and support structures, including track work, systems installation, and placement of noise wall panels. Construction at the US2 development is also underway at the corner of Somerville Ave. and Prospect St.

In East Somerville, with the steel framework for the station platform canopy in place, more detailed station work continues. Retaining wall construction remains active up to Walnut St., as does construction of the median barrier and systems installation.

The first steel beams were installed at the Medford St. bridge this past week, pictured above. Deck construction will follow steel placement.

At the School St. bridge, deck work is advancing, and utility work is ongoing on both sides of the bridge.

At Magoun, expect to see steel structures for a walkway and head house to the station take shape. South of the station, work on the Community Path is advancing near the existing path terminus. Several concrete sections were poured in early March.

In Ball Square, construction continues on the station platform as well as the foundation and deck for the station head house, which will connect to the Broadway bridge entrance.

Updated 3/7/2021

In Union Square, work continues on and around the station platform and support structures. This includes track work, systems installation, and placement of noise wall panels.

In East Somerville, the steel framework for the platform canopy is in place. Work on the platform, walls, drainage, system, and track will continue. North of Washington St., retaining wall construction is active up to Walnut St., and crews are constructing the median barrier, which will separate the Green Line from the commuter rail.

The steel canopy at the future Gilman Square stop is also now in place. Work continues on the station platform, headhouse, and nearby retaining walls. Steel is being placed across the open spans at the School St. bridge, pictured above.

Work to replace an old duct bank continues on School St. near City Hall. Crews will continue to close Montrose St. and Madison St. for brief periods as this work advances.

Between School St. and Central St., backfilling, grading, and wall work is underway to build the Community Path. At track level, signal systems work continues in order to begin track placement in the near future.

In Magoun Square, work includes station construction, retaining wall placement, and modifications to the foundations of the Lowell St. and Cedar St. bridges.

Construction continues on the Ball Square station platform and headhouse foundation. Work is advancing inside of the traction power substation (the large grey building along Boston Ave.).

Updated 1/24/2021

Take a ride along the Medford/Tufts branch via this video tour the GLX team shared at their public meeting last month, or scroll through the presentation slides to see a host of progress photos and summaries of each station's key features.

Given increased construction activity for both GLX and SHS, the School St. pedestrian bridge has been closed as a safety measure. The SHS project will permanently remove the pedestrian bridge in February in order to build a large retaining wall for the new athletic field. Pedestrians should use Richdale/Sycamore/Madison until the School St. sidewalks reopen, currently estimated for late spring.

Major ongoing work throughout the corridor includes platform work at all seven new stations, bridge modifications, wall construction, and track placement. Pictured above is the deck of the viaduct portion of the Community Path extension near Brickbottom.

Updated 12/13/2020

The GLX project is now 62% complete, with revenue service still expected to begin about a year from now.

In Union Square, work is focused on the station platform and placing new track.

In East Somerville, the station platform and utility building are progressing. Work continues on the Washington St. bridge in order to reopen the southern sidewalk below.

In Gilman Square, station foundation construction is ongoing. The nearby traction power substation has been repainted and sealed up. At the Medford St. and School St. bridges, crews are working on supports that will hold up both roadways. Retaining walls are being constructed and sound walls installed between School St. and Central St.

Work on the foundation for the Magoun Square station platform and on the utility building continues. From Central St. to Lowell St., retaining wall construction is ongoing, and steel noise wall panels are being inserted as they arrive.

In Ball Square, major work is focused on the station platform, traction power substation, and noise walls. Up past Harvard St., new light-rail track is being placed.

Updated 11/22/2020

The Union Square station platform is taking shape and track placement is progressing, pictured above. Interior work on the nearby mechanical building continues.

Work is ongoing on the East Somerville station platform and utility building, as well as walls and drainage structures throughout the area. At the Washington St. underpass, crews are finishing work on the south side of the bridge in order to reopen the adjacent sidewalk.

The foundation for the Gilman Square station platform is in place and utility work is underway. Steel for the Medford St. bridge deck is anticipated to be placed mid-December, and work is progressing on School St. bridge footings for a new center pier. Both bridges are expected to reopen in the spring.

Retaining wall construction continues between School St. and Central St. Once retaining wall panels are fully in place, crews will start backfilling between the wall and hillside. In most of these sections, this is where the Community Path will be located.

The foundation for the Magoun Square station platform is in place and the deck is being framed, pictured below.

In Ball Square, the station platform foundation is also in place, and work advances on the deck. Eversource contractors continue overnight electric work to support the new station.

Updated 11/9/2020

In Ball Square, Eversource will commence four to six weeks of overnight electric work on Broadway near Boston Ave. to support the GLX. The overnight schedule is intended to preserve parking during the daytime for local businesses.

In the Magoun Square area, concrete retaining wall panels are being installed from Central St. to Lowell St.,and work continues on the Lowell St. and Cedar St. bridge foundations.

In Gilman Square, the nearby traction power substation is now under roof and work is underway to seal up the building. Retaining wall construction continues between Montrose St. and Sycamore St.

In East Somerville, the station platform is taking shape. Retaining wall construction between Cross St. and Walnut St. will remain active. Expect drilling for retaining wall foundations through the end of the year.

And in Union Square, the first actual light rail tracks are being installed between Union and Lechmere.

Updated 10/25/2020

Steel canopy installation is underway at the Union Square station, pictured above. Crews are installing electrical conduits near Charlestown Ave. and drainage around the platform.

In East Somerville, crews are building sidewalks at the Washington St. underpass and working on bridge decking overhead.

In the Gilman Square area, work includes drainage and retaining wall construction, modifications to the School St. and Medford St. bridges, building a traction power substation near the Medford St. bridge, and advancing the station foundation.

In the Magoun Square area, work is progressing on the station platform and utility building, retaining walls, and drainage. Concrete wall panels are being installed from Central St. to Lowell St.,and work continues on the Lowell St. and Cedar St. bridge foundations.

And in the Ball Square area, the station platform is taking shape as work continues inside of another traction power substation. Light poles are going in around the Broadway bridge. Drainage structures are also being installed, and retaining wall construction is ongoing between Cedar St. and Broadway.

Updated 10/11/2020

GLX construction is more than halfway done. Officials recently announced the project passed the 50% milestone. So far, by the numbers: more than 650 people have collectively worked 2.5 million hours; 77,000 square feet of retaining walls have been built; 39,000 cubic yards of concrete have been installed; and as you're likely well aware, two bridges have been completely reconstructed. Service is expected to begin by the end of 2021, with the Union Square branch anticipated to open before the Medford/Tufts branch.

Throughout the corridor, station construction continues at each new stop. Other ongoing work within the alignment includes:

Drilling and installing posts behind Joy St.,which will carry overhead control system lines
Retaining wall construction between Cross St. and Walnut St.
Placing concrete at the Medford St. bridge to reinforce the center pier
School St. bridge abutment work adjacent to Montrose St.
Retaining wall construction between Montrose St. and Sycamore St.
Concrete wall panel installation from Central St. to Lowell St.
Modifications to the Lowell St. and Cedar St. bridge foundations
Retaining wall construction between Cedar St. and Broadway

Updated 9/20/2020

In the Union Square area, station construction continues, and retaining walls are being installed along the corridor between Prospect St. and McGrath Highway to support the new light rail track.

In East Somerville, final surface restoration of the roadway and sidewalks at the Washington St. underpass is expected to continue through October. Overhead, abutments and decking on the second half of the Washington St. rail overpass are underway. Retaining wall construction continues between Cross St. and Walnut St.

In Gilman Square, crews will prepare slopes behind Montrose St. for Community Path related work and shotcrete application, which adds stability to the hillside before retaining wall panels are placed. Work also continues on the station foundation, traction power substation, steel noise wall panels, and Medford St. bridge modifications.

In the Magoun Square area, work is progressing on the station platform, support-building foundations, lower-level Lowell St. bridge modifications, and retaining walls between SycamoreSt. and Lowell St.

In Ball Square, station foundation work continues, as does work inside of the traction power substation and retaining wall construction between Cedar St. and Broadway. Work around the Broadway bridge is nearly complete.

Updated 9/6/2020

In Union Square this month, contractors plan to install steel for the new station canopy, signaling and communications equipment, and rail bed and track.

At the East Somerville station, platform construction continues, and steel for the canopy is expected to arrive this month. At the Washington St. underpass, final surface restoration of the roadway and sidewalks is ongoing, with expected completion in October. Retaining wall construction continues between Cross St. and Walnut St.

In Gilman Square, work continues on the station foundation, concrete retaining walls, and steel noise walls. Wall construction behind Montrose St. may be disruptive at times.

In Magoun Square, crews are working on retaining walls, drainage, and framing the foundations for the station platform and support buildings near Lowell St.

In Ball Square, wall foundation construction will continue between Cedar St. and Broadway and behind homes on Boston Ave. Final surfacing on the Broadway bridge is expected to be completed within the next few weeks.

Updated 8/23/2020

In Union Square, steel for the new station canopy is expected to go in soon. Installation of signaling and communications equipment continues, and rail bed and track installation is expected to begin in September.

At the East Somerville station, pictured above, platform construction continues behind Joy St. Steel for the station canopy is expected to arrive in September.

In Gilman Square, station foundation is advancing. At the Medford St. bridge, steel placement will begin across the center pier and new west abutment. Retaining wall construction and steel noise wall panel placement is ongoing. Soil removal or work on retaining walls is likely to happen overnight.

In Magoun Square, crews are working on retaining walls, drainage, and station construction. Lowell St. bridge modifications continue as workers create more clearance at track level. Retaining wall construction continues from Central St. to just past Lowell St. Overnight work is expected in this area associated with retaining wall construction and steel noise wall panel placement.

And in Ball Square, wall foundation construction will continue between Cedar St. and Broadway and behind homes on Boston Ave. Final surfacing on and around the Broadway bridge is expected to wrap up in September. The station foundation will be framed following some additional utility relocations in the area. Night work is likely to support wall construction.

Updated 7/26/2020

Broadway bridge is planned to be closed overnight Wednesday, July 29, from 8 p.m. until about 6 a.m. Thursday morning. GLX-C will install expansion joint materials across the entire bridge.

Broadway station foundation, drainage, and utility work continue, as does work on the Ball Square traction power substation along Boston Ave. Just south of the bridge, a retaining wall is being built behind homes on Boston Ave.

In the Magoun station area, work is underway on wall foundations between Central St. and Lowell St. Drainage on the west side of the alignment is also being installed.

At Gilman Square, the station foundation and traction power substation are coming along. Retaining wall foundation work and drainage installation continues between Sycamore St. and Central St.

Near the future East Somerville station, platform construction continues behind Joy St. At the Washington St. underpass, surface restoration is ongoing, expected to be completed this fall.

Union Square station construction continues. Manholes are being installed to access newly placed utilities, and track installation is expected to commence soon.

Updated 7/12/2020

Union Square station construction is underway, which you can see from the Prospect St. bridge.

East Somerville station foundation work and retaining wall construction continues behind businesses on Joy St. Further north, retaining wall construction between Cross St. and Walnut St. continues.

At the Medford St. bridge, workers are building the new bridge abutment at roadway level, while at track level they reinforce the original abutment that will become the new center pier.

At School St. bridge, foundation drilling for the new abutment continues on the Montrose St. side of the tracks. Nearby, drilling the foundation for a large retaining wall between School St. and Sycamore St. is ongoing. Wall construction in this area will continue to be very active through Central St.

In the Magoun area, work on retaining walls and drainage is ongoing on the west side of the rail alignment, and station construction has begun near Lowell St. On the opposite side of the alignment, retaining and noise wall panels are being inserted where steel H-piles are already in place.

Final surface work will continue on the Broadway bridge deck. Further work is needed to fully complete the deck, sidewalks, drainage, and electrical work.

Updated 6/20/2020

GLX will host a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, June 24, at 5:30 p.m. Register to attend here.

Frequent weekend and overnight work is expected at the Medford St. bridge. Workers continue to make headway on building the new bridge abutment at roadway level; at track level, they're reinforcing the original abutment that will become the new center pier.

At School St., foundation drilling for the new bridge abutment continues on the Montrose St. side of the tracks, as does drilling the foundation for a large retaining wall between School St. and Sycamore St. Wall construction in this area will continue up to Central St.

Near the future Magoun Square station, work this month will focus on retaining walls, drainage, and station construction near Lowell St.

Updated 6/13/2020

Both Broadway bridge and the Washington St. underpass have reopened in interim conditions. Final surface restorations are expected later this summer.

Frequent weekend and overnight work is expected at the Medford St. bridge. Workers continue to make headway on building the new bridge abutment at roadway level; at track level, they're reinforcing the original abutment that will become the new center pier.

At School St., foundation drilling for the new bridge abutment continues on the Montrose St. side of the tracks, as does drilling the foundation for a large retaining wall between School St. and Sycamore St. Wall construction in this area will continue up to Central St.

Near the future Magoun Square station, work this month will focus on retaining walls, drainage, and station construction near Lowell St.

GLX will host a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, June 24, at 5:30 p.m. Register to attend here.

Updated 5/29/2020

Washington Street Bridge/Underpass near McGrath Highway to Reopen May 31
Broadway Bridge in Ball Square Scheduled to Reopen First Week of June

The Green Line Extension (GLX) project announced that the Washington Street Bridge / Underpass near McGrath Highway in East Somerville is expected to permanently reopen on May 31. The Broadway Bridge in Ball Square is expected to reopen shortly thereafter during the first week of June. Both bridges were closed in the spring of 2019 and completely reconstructed to advance the GLX project.

At Washington Street, the roadway underpass will reopen with one travel lane in each direction. A temporary pedestrian sidewalk will be open on one side of the roadway until final surface restoration is complete. Work will continue overhead on the elevated track level during this phase. Permanent pavement, finished sidewalks on both sides, lighting, and street markings will be completed this summer.

MBTA bus routes 86, 91, and CT2, which have been diverted around the closure, are expected to revert to their original routes soon after the underpass reopens. The MBTA will post signage and more information when it’s available.

At Broadway, the bridge will initially reopen with one travel lane in each direction. During this early stage, temporary accessible sidewalks and bike lanes will be installed on one side of the bridge allowing bike/pedestrian travel in both directions at all times.

MBTA bus routes 80 and 89, which have been diverted around the closure, are expected to revert to their original routes shortly after the bridge reopens. The MBTA will post signage and more information when it’s available.

Final surface restorations are expected to be completed this summer. At that time, the bridge will include permanent pavement markings with two travel lanes in each direction, in addition to finished sidewalks and bike lanes on each side of the bridge. When the future Ball Square Station (now under construction) is complete, the bridge will feature a fully accessible entrance to the station platform from the bridge sidewalk via an elevator and staircase. A second at-grade entrance will be constructed from Boston Ave.

The City recognizes these long-term closures were disruptive for many in the community and is grateful to all for their patience and perseverance during construction. The long-awaited GLX will bring seven new T stations to the region and extend the Somerville Community Path to North Point Park, near the Charles River in Cambridge. It will put 85% of Somerville residents within a half-mile of a subway stop and add almost 11 miles of new drainage infrastructure. It’s expected to reduce traffic, improve air quality, and foster economic development. For more information, visit www.Mass.gov/GLX.

Updated 5/15/2020

Lechmere Station Closes May 24; Shuttle Bus Service Provided to North Station

Green Line service between Lechmere and North Stations will be interrupted for approximately one year beginning May 24 to remove, rebuild, and relocate a section of viaduct and construct a new Lechmere Station.
During the closure, Green Line service between Lechmere Station and North Station will be provided via replacement bus service. Pavement markings on Charles River Dam Rd. will be temporarily reconfigured during the track outage to include all-day dedicated bus lanes in both directions.
Existing bicycle and pedestrian accommodations will be preserved. Read more here.

Lowell Line Commuter Rail Service Suspended for GLX Construction

Heavy construction is planned during the day and overnight along the Lowell Commuter Rail Line corridor through May 24 while service on the Lowell Line is suspended. The large yellow multi-purpose machine (a long piece of heavy construction machinery on rail cars) will be staging work throughout the corridor. Federal railroad regulations require the vehicle sound its horn during stops and starts. Please ensure you're signed up to receive MassDOT GLX email alerts.
The MBTA announced the Lowell Line work described above was previously going to be completed during a series of weekend diversions later this year, but they've resequenced the schedule to complete the work while both transit ridership and traffic on the roadways that shuttle buses will use is low.

Updated 3/30/2020

Somerville’s Bridge Hopper Shuttles to Suspend Service Starting April 1; GLX Not Subject to City’s Suspension of Non-Essential Construction

The Somerville Bridge Hopper, the City’s free shuttle service to help residents navigate Green Line Extension construction detours, will suspend operations effective April 1, 2020, until further notice.

The Bridge Hopper shuttles have served riders near both the Broadway bridge and Washington Street bridge since April 2019. This suspension is intended to preserve the public health and safety of shuttle drivers and passengers during the COVID-19 crisis.

State-run projects including the Green Line Extension are exempt from Somerville’s suspension of non-essential construction during the COVID-19 public health emergency and are explicitly allowed to proceed under the guidance of the Commonwealth. MassDOT has issued updated guidelines for its construction sites and workers.

For more information, please email construction@somervillema.gov or call 3-1-1.

Updated 3/11/2020

School Street Bridge Closure Update: Weekend Closures Start Friday, March 13, to Accelerate Reconstruction

Upfront work is projected to shorten duration of full-time bridge closure by up to two months; additional mitigation efforts planned for residents and businesses

In an effort to continue advancing progress on the project to extend the Green Line into Somerville and Medford, and in consideration of the unique geographic circumstances surrounding Somerville High School, Medford Street Bridge, and School Street Bridge, the School Street Bridge, in Gilman Square near Somerville City Hall, will close on weekends, effective this weekend, starting Friday night, March 13. While the bridge is scheduled to close on a full-time basis in May, these additional weekend closures are expected to reduce the overall schedule for reconstruction of School Street by approximately two months.

Additionally, to take advantage of a traditional decrease in vehicular travel, the School Street Bridge will also close for the week of school vacation, which is April 20 through April 24.

When the bridge is closed, southbound motorists on School Street will be diverted east or west onto Medford Street. The School Street pedestrian bridge between Medford Street and Highland Avenue will remain open and accessible for pedestrians and cyclists during these closures. Detour maps and directions are available at SomervilleMA.gov/GLX in the “Bridge Closures & Detours” section. These detours will be modified slightly prior to the full-time School St. bridge closure in May. Further information will be provided closer to that date.

This series of short-term closures is intended to reduce the longer-term impacts for the Somerville community under the original schedule. As a result of this new construction sequence, the School Street Bridge is anticipated to reopen in April 2021, a full two months ahead of schedule.

The City and the MBTA have also worked closely over recent weeks to explore additional construction mitigation for local residents and businesses. Several measures will be implemented this spring, including:

Continued support for the City’s first responders in construction-affected areas;
GLX Constructors, the MBTA’s design-build entity delivering GLX, will fund student passes for the months of May and June, as well as September and October of the following school year, for students who attend Somerville High School;
Additional replacement parking for City and High School staff at the site of the former Homans building;
A continuation of shuttle service for residents impacted by bridge closures; and
A commitment by the GLX Constructors to support future two community events in Ball and Magoun square.

For additional information about the Green Line Extension, visit mass.gov/GLX.

Updated 3/6/2020

The GLX team will host a public meeting Tuesday, March 10, in East Cambridge. The meeting will cover the temporary closure of Lechmere and planned bus diversions, as well as Union Sq. and East Somerville station designs. The evening will begin open-house style, then move into presentation and public comment.
During the week of March 9, GLX reports similar work to that of recent weeks is expected: sheet pile driving behind Target; installation of new bridge abutments, drainage, and construction of retaining walls at the Washington St. bridge; track grading between Sycamore St. and Cedar St.; and abutment construction at the Broadway bridge.

Updated 2/21/2020

Foundation work is underway on the new Union Square station, and sheet pile driving continues nearby behind Target.
The demolition of the second half of the Washington St. rail overpass is complete. Installation of new bridge abutments, drainage, and construction of retaining walls will continue for the next several weeks.
In Gilman Sq., crews are building a Traction Power Substation near the Medford St. bridge and building a new retaining wall on the high school side of the tracks.
At the Broadway bridge, construction continues on the east, center, and west abutments.
The next GLX public meeting will be Tuesday, March 10, in East Cambridge. The project team will provide a construction update and discuss the temporary closure of Lechmere and planned bus diversions.
For a detailed summary of upcoming work, take a look at the latest construction update from MassDOT. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.

Updated 1/27/2020

On Monday, January 27, the GLX Project released an updated schedule for bridge closures in Somerville associated with the Green Line Extension construction. Click here to read the announcement from the City of Somerville.

Most notably, the revised timeline estimates that the Broadway bridge in Ball Square will open in July 2020, about four months later than anticipated. The new schedule also shows the Medford St. bridge (between Pearl St. and Walnut St.) and the School St. bridge (between Medford St. and Highland Ave.) closed concurrently for approximately four months in the summer and fall of 2020.

GLX officials still expect the project in full to be completed on time, by the end of 2021.

More information about traffic detours and mitigation efforts will be provided when available. Constituents are encouraged to contact the 24/7 GLX hotline at (855) 459-4636 or info@glxinfo.com with questions or comments.

Updated 1/10/2020

Throughout the weekend of January 10, between the Washington St. bridge and the Sycamore St. bridge, GLX work crews will be relocating the first of two Commuter Rail tracks to its permanent location along the east side of the MBTA right-of-way.
Work will continue during the day and overnight. Activities will include heavy equipment movement, hauling and dumping of crushed stone, and the cutting and welding of track. Overnight noise in these areas may be disruptive at times, primarily due to the use of gasoline-powered hand tools needed to cut tracks.
Between Sycamore St. and Harvard St. in Medford, work continues to install drainage and construct noise walls, retaining walls, and the Broadway bridge foundation.
On the Union Square branch, work continues to construct the foundation for the future station and a retaining wall behind Target.
For a detailed summary of upcoming work, take a look at the latest construction update from MassDOT. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.

Updated 12/13/2019

New overnight work: Starting Friday, December 13, GLX crews will begin installing a sheet-pile retaining wall along the tracks between the Prospect St. bridge and the Medford St. bridge (behind Target), near the site of the future Union Square Green Line station.
This work is expected to continue around-the-clock on a 24-hour basis for the next few weeks and may produce moderate to heavy noise at times, particularly for residences on Charlestown St. and the southern ends of Allen and Linden streets.
Pedestrians and cyclists, please note: Starting Monday, December 16, GLX-C will fence off the long parking lot at Somerville Junction Park between Central St. and Centre St. for staging. Pedestrians and cyclists who use that as a thruway should use Albion St. and Hudson St. instead.
Construction will also continue at various work zones within the MBTA rail right-of-way between the Washington St. bridge and College Ave. in Medford daily and overnight throughout the weekend of December 13 and the week of December 16. This work will advance foundations, walls, utilities, and rail-bed grading prior to the impending "track shift," when the Commuter Rail tracks will be placed in their permanent location along the east/north side of the alignment.
For a detailed summary of upcoming work, take a look at the latest construction update from MassDOT. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.

Updated 12/6/2019

Construction will continue at various work zones within the MBTA rail right-of-way between the Washington St. bridge and College Ave. in Medford daily and overnight throughout the weekend of December 6 and the week of December 9. Much of the work in this stretch continues to focus on drainage installation and wall construction.
At the Washington St. bridge, crews are advancing wall construction and building up the crushed stone foundation where the new Commuter Rail track will be placed.
Crews expect to finish chipping out the dense rock between School St. and Central St. within the next several weeks. The trench will accommodate a large drainage pipe measuring 5 ft. in diameter.
Drilling the foundation for the new Broadway bridge continues near Ball Sq.
For a detailed summary of upcoming work, take a look at the latest construction update from MassDOT. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.

Updated 11/22/2019

Construction will continue at various work zones within the MBTA rail right-of-way between the Washington St. bridge and College Ave. in Medford through Wednesday, November 27. Much of the work in this stretch continues to focus on drainage installation and wall construction.
No work will be conducted on Thanksgiving Day, and limited work is planned through the following weekend.
For a detailed summary of upcoming work, take a look at the latest construction update from MassDOT. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.

Updated 10/25/2019

The GLX team will host their next public meeting Tuesday, November 19, at the East Somerville Community School.
During the weekend of October 25 and the week of October 28, construction activity is expected to continue daily and overnight within the rail corridor at various work zones between Washington St. and College Ave. in Medford. GLX-C crews will advance work on foundations, walls, utilities, and will begin installing noise panels while Commuter Rail service is suspended to meet critical end-of-year deadlines.
As a reminder, a construction train used for excavation and hauling materials will be active during nights and weekends and is required to use its horn for safety purposes when it stops and starts.

Updated 10/18/2019

As a reminder, the Washington St. bridge will remain closed through April 2020, allowing through traffic to be restored five months sooner than previously planned.
During the weekend of October 18 and the week of October 21, construction activity is expected to continue daily and overnight within the rail corridor at various work zones between Gilman Square in Somerville and College Ave. in Medford. GLX-C crews will advance work on foundations, walls, and utilities while Commuter Rail service is suspended to meet critical end-of-year deadlines.
Please note that a construction train used for excavation and hauling of materials will be active throughout the nights and weekend. This heavy piece of equipment, which is regulated by the Federal Railroad Administration, is required to use its horn for safety purposes whenever it stops and starts.
More detailed information about upcoming and ongoing work throughout the GLX alignment can be found in the biweekly construction updates from MassDOT.
Frequent overnight and weekend work is expected to continue through the end of the year. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.

Updated 10/10/2019

The MBTA announced this week that the Washington St. Bridge will remain closed thru April 2020, which will restore through traffic in that area 5 months earlier than expected.
Construction activity will continue daily and overnight within the rail corridor at various work zones between Gilman Square in Somerville and College Ave.in Medford. GLX-C crews will advance work on foundations, walls, and utility relocation while Commuter Rail service is suspended.
Where night work and/or disruptive work is planned, crews will make every effort to minimize noise and lights, however some disruption is unavoidable as crews work around Commuter Rail shutdowns.
More detailed information about upcoming and ongoing work throughout the GLX alignment can be found in the biweekly construction updates from MassDOT.
Frequent overnight and weekend work is expected to continue through the end of the year. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.

Updated 9/27/19

Construction activity is expected to continue around the clock within the rail corridor at various work zones between Gilman Square in Somerville and College Ave. in Medford throughout the weekend of September 27. GLX-C crews will advance work on foundations, walls, and utility relocation while Commuter Rail service is suspended.
Work near Ball Square and north of College Ave. will involve breaking up rock and cutting track sections to install drainage lines, which may be disruptive. Contractors will make efforts to minimize noise where possible and direct lighting away from residential buildings.
Please note that a construction train used for excavation and hauling of materials will be active during overnight and weekend work. This heavy piece of equipment, which is regulated by the Federal Railroad Administration, is required to use its horn for safety purposes whenever it stops and starts.
More detailed information about upcoming and ongoing work throughout the GLX alignment can be found in the biweekly construction updates from MassDOT.
Frequent overnight and weekend work is expected to continue through the end of the year. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.
In lighter news: Join your neighbors, GLX representatives, and some big trucks at the Gilman Square Block Party on Saturday, September 28, for food (e.g., watermelon-eating contest), art, music, games, and more.

Updated 9/13/2019

Construction activity is planned throughout the weekend of September 13-15, in the MBTA rail right-of-way between the Broadway bridge and the Washington St. bridge to advance foundations, wall construction, utility work, and steel placement while Commuter Rail service is suspended.
Noise from heavy equipment is expected, and work lights will also be used onsite. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.
More detailed information about upcoming and ongoing work throughout the GLX alignment is outlined in the new construction update from MassDOT.
Frequent overnight work is expected to continue through the end of the year. Detailed updates and lookaheads are always available on the GLX website.
Join the City, GLX team, and local business organizations for festivals around future GLX stations in Ball Sq. and Gilman Sq.! A festival is planned in Ball Sq. for 9/22 at noon, and on Richdale Ave. in Gilman Sq. on 9/28 at noon. For more info, visit somervillema.gov.

Updated 9/6/2019

Construction activity is planned throughout the weekend of Friday, September 6, in the MBTA rail right-of-way between the Broadway bridge and the Washington St. bridge to advance foundations, wall construction, utility work, and steel placement while Commuter Rail service is suspended.
Noise from heavy equipment is expected, and work lights will also be used onsite. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.
More detailed information about upcoming and ongoing work throughout the GLX alignment is outlined in the new construction update from MassDOT.

Updated 8/23/2019

Overnight work is planned at the Washington St. bridge this weekend between Friday evening, August 23, and early the morning of Monday, August 26. Crews plan to place steel girders to advance construction on the new bridge deck. Noise from heavy equipment is expected, and work lights will be used onsite.
Overnight weekend work is also expected near Granville Ave. in Medford near Ball Sq. GLX crews will work around-the-clock on Friday and Saturday night as they continue to advance foundation and utility work inside the MBTA right-of-way. Frequent nighttime and weekend work at this location is expected in the coming months.
Near Inner Belt, workers completed welding together 6 miles of 60-foot-long sections of light-rail (1,700 tons total) that will be placed along the alignment next spring.
Behind homes on Richdale Ave., crews are drilling and placing concrete micro piles that will support a noise wall.
For more detailed information about upcoming and ongoing work, take a look at the latest construction update from MassDOT. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.

Updated 8/16/2019

Overnight work is planned in Medford at Granville Ave., near Ball Sq. late Friday into Saturday morning August 16 - 17 (approx 1 a.m. - 6 a.m.). Crews plan to install track matting, which will allow future truck traffic to cross over the tracks without damaging them.
This is not typically a very noisy operation, but backup alarms may be audible in the area (those are legally mandated and can't be turned off). New lights will also be used in an effort to reduce the amount of light escaping the site.
Overnight work is also planned starting Sunday, August 18, throughout the week within the rail corridor between School St. and Central St. Anticipated work hours are 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Here, crews will install new storm drain lines and utilities. Heavy equipment will be in motion throughout the night and may be loud at times.
If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.

Updated 8/9/2019

Overnight weekend work is planned in Medford at Granville Ave., near Ball Sq. Crews plan to take advantage of a Commuter Rail service outage to install a new storm drain line. Work is expected to begin Friday evening, August 9, and continue around the clock into the early morning hours of Monday, August 12.
During the week of August 12, another crew plans to install micropiles for sound walls on Sycamore St. from Highland Ave. to Medford St.
For more information about work throughout the corridor, please see MassDOT's construction update. If you need assistance for a GLX construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636) or email info@glxinfo.com.

Updated 7/19/2019

The old Broadway bridge abutments are expected to be demolished soon. Installation of support of excavation structures for the new bridge continues.
At the Washington St. overpass, drainage installation and construction of new north and south abutments continues.
Throughout the corridor, crews are installing drainage and constructing retaining walls and noise walls. For more details, see MassDOT's latest construction update.

Updated 7/12/2019

Heavy construction is planned near Lechmere for work on the new vehicle maintenance facility. If you live or work in that area, be sure to review MassDOT's latest construction update.
GLX Constructors will install support of excavation structures at the Broadway bridge, new drainage at both Washington St. and Medford St. bridges, and a separation barrier along the rail corridor.
Headed to ArtBeat? Same. Find us in Davis Sq. on Saturday, July 13, between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. Bring questions or just stop by to hear the latest.

Updated 6/21/2019

Overnight work is planned Friday, June 21, through Saturday, June 22, within the MBTA rail right-of-way between about Lowell St. and Central St. No overnight work is planned for Saturday or Sunday.
During that time, crews will cut and remove sections of the tracks to install two drainage lines near the future Magoun Square T station.
Throughout the week, work will continue all along the corridor on sewer and drainage structures and bridge abutments. See MassDOT's construction update for summaries of planned work at each station area.

Updated 6/7/2019

Overnight work is planned this weekend, starting Friday evening, June 7, and continuing through early the morning of Monday, June 10, within the MBTA rail right-of-way at multiple locations between Cedar St. and Walnut St.
Crews will work to relocate sewer pipes (1) behind Somerville High School; (2) between Central and Cedar street bridges near Maxwells Green; and (3) near Murdock St. and Charles E. Ryan Rd.
Late-night work may be disruptive at times. If you have questions or need assistance, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636), email info@glxinfo.com, or contact 311.
At the Washington St. bridge, GLX Constructors will install drainage structures, demo a bridge abutment, and haul out debris.
They'll also prep to take down retaining walls on Fitchburg St.
As a reminder, National Grid work has begun in the City of Medford on Harvard St. (Boston Ave. to Main St.). Between 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the road will be open to eastbound traffic only to maintain the GLX detour.

Updated 5/31/2019

Overnight work in the MBTA rail right-of-way near the intersection of School St. and Medford St. is planned for late Friday, May 31, through early the morning of Monday, June 3, to relocate a sewer line beneath the tracks. Please expect noise from heavy equipment and construction activity.
While schedules may change, overnight work is also planned for next weekend on the tracks between Charles E. Ryan Rd. and Murdock St. Make sure you're enrolled in the City's Alert system to be notified directly before disruptive work like this.
At the Washington St. bridge, GLX Constructors will install drainage structures, demo a bridge abutment, and haul out debris.
They'll also prep to take down retaining walls on Fitchburg St.
PSA for those who use the eastbound Broadway detour: National Grid work is expected to begin on Harvard St. (Boston Ave. to Main St.) in the City of Medford on June 3 and continue for three months. During work hours, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the road will be open to eastbound traffic only to maintain the GLX detour.

Updated 5/24/2019

Though schedules are subject to change, overnight work on the tracks between Charles E. Ryan Rd. and Murdock St. is planned for Friday, May 31, through about 5 a.m. Monday, June 3, to finish sewer siphon installation.
At the Washington St. bridge, crews are installing tiebacks, drilling shafts, and excavating. They'll start building forms for the bridge abutments in the coming weeks.
At Broadway, support of excavation walls are going in. Take a look at these slides (starting at p. 20) for an overview of GLX-C's planned approach for reconstructing that bridge.

Updated 5/17/2019

The Medford St. bridge, behind the high school, will close Friday, May 17, at about 9 p.m., through approximately early spring of 2020. Traffic will be rerouted via Pearl St. and McGrath Highway. Review maps for all detours here.
Overnight work is planned on the tracks between Charles E. Ryan Rd. and Murdock St. from Friday evening, May 17, through about 5 a.m. Monday, May 20. Noise from heavy construction and large machinery is expected as a new sewer line is installed, although pile driving and demolition operations are contractually prohibited between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Work lights will also be used onsite, and local streets will see increased truck traffic.

Updated 5/3/2019

The Medford St. bridge, behind the high school, will close Friday, May 17, until early spring of 2020. Traffic will be rerouted via Pearl St. and McGrath Highway. Review maps for all the detours here.
During the week of May 6, expect temporary lane closures on Medford St. between Walnut St. and School St. while GLX-C contractors install new fire alarm wiring.
On Broadway, trucks will also haul debris from Ball Sq. building demo and Broadway bridge work.
At Washington St., crews will continue to demo the bridge deck, truck out materials, and begin pipe installation.

Updated 4/26/2019

The Medford St. bridge, behind the high school, will close Friday, May 17, until early spring of 2020. All traffic will be rerouted via Pearl St. and McGrath Highway. Review maps for all the detours here.
During the week of April 29, GLX Constructors expects to finish building demolition on Boston Ave. near the Broadway intersection, where the new Ball Square T station will be. They'll continue segregating debris for recycling and hauling it offsite through the week.
Another crew will be installing new fire alarm wiring on Medford St. between Walnut St. and School St.
At Washington St., work will continue to demo the bridge deck.

Updated 4/19/2019

In bridge-closure news, the Medford St. bridge, behind the high school, will close Friday, May 17, until early spring of 2020. Although slightly earlier than anticipated, this timing will benefit both the GLX and the Somerville High School Building project. All traffic will be rerouted via Pearl St. and McGrath Highway. Review maps for all the detours here.
Starting Monday, April 22, crews will begin demolishing four buildings on Boston Ave. near the Broadway intersection, where the new Ball Square T station will be. Demo and debris removal will continue throughout the week between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., requiring lane shifts around the work zone.

Updated 4/12/2019

The GLX project marked two construction milestones last week: First, the Homans building was demolished. Our neighbors at Above Summit captured demo day in this 30-second video, and the MBTA shared a satisfying clip of the final shove. Debris removal will continue throughout this week.
Second, the Washington St. underpass has now been closed. Detours for all bridge closures are always here for your reference. Crews expect to use this week to prep for bridge demo.
Catch the Somerville Bridge Hopper, the City's free shuttle around both the Broadway and Washington St. bridges, weekdays between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Head to the Bridge Closures & Detours tab to see stops and routes.
If you have construction-related questions or concerns, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636), email info@glxinfo.com, or contact 311.

Updated 4/4/2019

On Saturday and Sunday, April 6 and 7, as part of the Green Line Extension project, contractors will demolish the remainder of the Homans Building on Medford St. near the Pearl St. intersection. Work will be conducted between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., though crews will be onsite at 6 a.m. to set up the work zone.

Traffic Impacts

During work hours, Medford St. between School and Walnut streets will close to motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Southbound motorists will be detoured via School St. and Highland Ave.
Northbound motorists will be detoured onto Walnut St. to Broadway to School St.
Access to abutting residences and businesses will be managed onsite by the construction supervisor during the street closure.
MBTA bus route 80 will also service a slightly modified route in the area. The MBTA will post additional information on www.mbta.com and at affected bus stops.

Demo Details

During demolition, excavators will carefully pull the building facade back toward the tracks and onto the recently cleared building foundation.
Abutters should expect noise from heavy equipment, similar to that of the last few weeks.
Dust will be controlled using a water mist.

Updated 4/3/2019

Starting Mon., April 8, around 10 p.m., the Washington St. bridge in East Somerville will close for approximately seven months as part of the next phase of the Green Line Extension Project. Free shuttle service will begin on Tue., April 9.

During this phase of the GLX construction, all vehicles and pedestrians will be rerouted, and the 86, 91 and CT2 buses will be detoured. Please see the State’s website for detour maps and directions listed under the “Bridge Closures” section.

The Somerville Bridge Hopper will run weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and will be operated by the City to help commuters get from one side of the bridge to the other. Signage will be posted at each designated shuttle stop to help direct commuters and pedestrians.

Free Shuttle Service

The Somerville Bridge Hopper is a free shuttle service provided by the City to help residents navigate long-term bridge closures required for Green Line Extension construction.

Service will be offered on Broadway and on Washington St. Shuttles will run a loop around each bridge to transport riders from one side of the closure to the other. A mobile app tracking the shuttle’s real-time location will be available for download by late April.

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Washington St. Shuttle Start Date: Tuesday, April 9

Schedule: Weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Stops: The shuttle will start at the New Washington Street stop and travel to each of the existing stops.

Updated 3/29/2019

The Broadway bridge is officially closed, and its deck has been successfully removed. Crews begin demolishing its concrete abutments Friday evening, March 29, and all day Saturday and Sunday, so noise is expected in the area. Cleanup and some excavation will continue overnight into early the morning of Monday, April 1.
Catch the Somerville Bridge Hopper, the City's free shuttle, weekdays 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. It currently services two stops: one at Winchester St. and one outside Kelly's Diner. Signage is posted at each stop.
Saturday and Sunday, April 6 and 7, during daytime hours, Medford St. between School St. and Walnut St. will close to all traffic while the remainder of the Homans building is demolished. Southbound traffic will be detoured via School St. and Highland Ave. Northbound traffic will be detoured onto Walnut St. to Broadway to School St. Onsite officials will manage access for abutters. The MBTA will post impacts to route 80 bus service onsite and online.
The Washington St. bridge in East Somerville is expected to close for seven months starting Monday, April 8, at 10 p.m. Motor vehicles, bikes, pedestrians, and MBTA bus routes 86, 91, and CT2 will be detoured around that underpass. Review all routes here.
If you have construction-related questions or concerns, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636), email info@glxinfo.com, or contact 311.

Updated 3/28/2019

Starting the evening of Friday, March 29, crews will begin to demolish the Broadway bridge’s concrete abutments. Demo is expected to continue Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Noise from heavy construction and large machinery is expected. Cleanup and some excavation work will continue overnight, concluding early the morning of Monday, April 1.

Work within the MBTA rail right-of-way is not subject to the City’s noise ordinance, but pile driving and demolition operations are contractually prohibited between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.

Unfortunately, overnight and weekend work will be required at the Broadway bridge over the coming year to take advantage of temporary Commuter Rail service outages. Contractors will minimize construction impacts as much as possible, but some disruption should be expected. We’ll continue to send notice to residents in the area prior to overnight operations.

If you have questions or need assistance for a Green Line construction-related matter, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636), email info@glxinfo.com, or contact 311.

Updated 3/25/2019

Free Shuttle Service Begins Today (3/25/19)

The Somerville Bridge Hopper is a free shuttle service provided by the City to help residents navigate long-term bridge closures required for Green Line Extension construction.

Broadway Shuttle Start Date: Monday, March 25

Schedule: Weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Stops:

Eastbound: Broadway between Josephine Ave. and Rogers Ave. (in front of The Pub)
Westbound: Broadway at Winchester St.

Updated 3/22/2019

The yearlong Broadway bridge closure begins Friday, March 22, at about 10 p.m. All detour routes are on the Bridge Closures & Detours tab, or visit www.mass.gov/GLX.
Bridge demo starts Saturday and Sunday, March 23 and 24, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Noise from jackhammering and other heavy machinery is expected. Cleanup will continue overnight. GLX Constructors will take advantage of planned Commuter Rail service outages to remove the bridge span over the course of one to two weekends.
You may have noticed new flex posts in roadways around the Broadway bridge. These are one element of the City's traffic calming strategy during bridge closures. See the FAQs tab to learn more.
Catch the Somerville Bridge Hopper, the City's free shuttle service, on Broadway starting Monday, March 25. Shuttles will run weekdays, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., between stops on either side of the bridge: one at Winchester St. and one outside Kelly's Diner. Signage is posted at each stop.
The Washington St. bridge in East Somerville is expected to close the evening of Sunday, April 7. Motor vehicles, bikes, pedestrians, and MBTA bus routes 86, 91, and CT2 will be detoured around that underpass. Review all routes on the Bridge Closures & Detours tab, or visit www.mass.gov/GLX.
The year ahead will be challenging, especially for businesses in districts affected by construction. If you can, please stay #Loyal2Localand support them during bridge closures.
If you have construction-related questions or concerns, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636), email info@glxinfo.com, or contact 311.

Updated 3/15/2019

Ready? The Broadway bridge closes Friday, March 22, for one year. If you drive, bike, walk, or take the MBTA 80 or 89 bus in that area, plan your new travel routes with these maps and this video. Take a look at the City's Broadway Bridge Closure Management Plan below to see all the steps we're taking to mitigate the impacts of this disruption.
The Washington St. bridge in East Somerville is expected to close the evening of Sunday, April 7. Motor vehicles, bikes, pedestrians, and MBTA bus routes 86, 91, and CT2 will be detoured around that underpass. Review all routes here.
The City will provide a free shuttle service to help residents navigate both the Broadway and Washington St. bridge closures. Routes are in final review, but service is expected to begin around the Broadway bridge the last week of March or the first week of April. Shuttles will run weekdays between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. We'll provide more information as those details are finalized.
On Monday, March 18, Homans building demolition will begin in earnest at the back of the site, proceeding incrementally over about three weeks. No major disruptions are expected until the facade on Medford St. comes down, likely the first weekend of April.
As a reminder, if construction-related questions and concerns arise, please call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636), email info@glxinfo.com, or contact 311.
And don't forget -- when the bridges come down, our small businesses will need extra support. If you can, join the #Loyal2Local campaign and send some dollars their way.

Broadway Bridge Closure Management Plan

Updated 3/12/2019

GLX Constructors’ demolition contractor is planning to mobilize and begin work on the Homans site, on Medford St. near the Pearl St. intersection, ‪on Wednesday, March 13.‬ The building will be taken down incrementally over a series of weeks. Initial work on the structure will begin in the rear of the building and is not expected to be impactful for abutters. The current estimate for the demo of the Medford St. face of the building is early April.

Updated 3/8/2019

Two weeks' notice: The Broadway bridge closes March 22 for one year. If you drive, bike, walk, or take the MBTA 80 or 89 bus in that area, please review these maps and directions and this video to get familiar with the new routes.
The Washington St. bridge in East Somerville is expected to close in April. Motor vehicles, bikes, pedestrians, and MBTA bus routes 86, 91, and CT2 will be detoured around that underpass. All detour routes are outlined here.
Please join City of Somerville elected officials and staff to talk through the Washington St. bridge closure, impacts, and mitigation efforts. We'll be at the East Somerville Community School (50 Cross St.) in the auditorium on Wednesday, March 13, starting at 6:30 p.m.

Updated 2/22/2019

Building demolition on 3rd Ave. will continue during the week of February 25. Demo of one of the buildings there is complete. This will free up space for construction staging and, ultimately, a new vehicle maintenance facility. Next up to come down: the Homans building, likely in early March.
Now let's talk bridge closures. The Broadway bridge between Ball Sq. and Magoun Sq. is planned to close starting Friday, March 22, for a full year.
If you drive, bike, walk, or take the MBTA 80 or 89 bus in that area, these maps are for you. Here's a new video, as well, that outlines the diversions.
Next, the Washington St. bridge in East Somerville will close in April. Motor vehicles, bikes, pedestrians, and MBTA bus routes 86, 91, and CT2 will be detoured around that underpass. Again, please reference these maps to prepare.
We're hosting a public meeting to discuss the Washington St. bridge closure. Please join City of Somerville elected officials and staff to talk through impacts and mitigation efforts on Wednesday, March 13, in the East Somerville Community School auditorium at 6:30 p.m.

Updated 2/20/2019

Broadway Bridge Detour

Updated 2/15/2019

Demolition of two buildings on 3rd Ave. will continue for the next few weeks. This will free up space for construction staging and, ultimately, a new vehicle maintenance facility. The Homans building will come down next, likely in early or mid-March.
In about six weeks, the bridge closures are expected to begin. The Broadway bridge between Ball Sq. and Magoun Sq. will close first -- for a full year. The Washington St. bridge just east of McGrath Highway will close in April, and the Medford St. bridge behind the high school will close in May.
Hopefully you're familiar with the detours that will be in place, but if not, maps are always here for you on the Bridge Closures & Detours tab.
NEW this week: MBTA bus detour maps. During the yearlong Broadway bridge closure, service on routes 80 and 89 will be modified. When the Washington St. bridge closes, routes 86, 91, and CT2 will be slightly adjusted. Take a look on the Bridge Closures & Detours tab to see more.

Updated 2/1/2019

Demolition of two buildings on 3rd Ave. is expected to begin Monday, February 4. This will free up space for construction staging and, ultimately, a new vehicle maintenance facility.
Foundation shafts for retaining and noise walls are being drilled in behind residences on Gilman St.
Next month, the bridge closures begin. Starting in late March, bridges on Broadway, then on Washington St., then on Medford St. will close for the rest of the year. See the Bridge Closures & Detours tab for more information.

Updated 1/25/2019

Within the roadway during the week of January 28, please expect parking restrictions as crews work on Medford St. between Walnut St. and Central St., on New Washington St., in Ball Sq. near the Broadway bridge, and near Rogers Foam.
MassDOT's latest biweekly construction outlook is up. Take a look for the latest on drainage and noise-wall work.
Demolition of two buildings on 3rd Ave. has been rescheduled for a later date. More to come as that timeline firms up.
Bridge closures are still expected to begin in late March, first on Broadway, then on Washington St., then on Medford St. Head to the Bridge Closures & Detours tab to see traffic impacts.

Updated 1/18/2019

Demolition on 3rd Ave. is expected to begin later during the week of January 21. Two buildings will come down to make space for construction staging. Ultimately this will be the site of a new vehicle maintenance facility.
Within the roadway, please expect parking restrictions as crews work on Medford St. between Walnut St. and Central St., on New Washington St., on Tufts St., in Ball Sq. near the Broadway bridge, and near Rogers Foam.
Bridge closures are expected to begin in late March, first on Broadway, then on Washington St., then on Medford St. Head to the updated Bridge Closures & Detours tab to see traffic impacts for cars, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Updated 1/14/2019

During the week of January 14, GLX Constructors will continue removing metal wall sheeting near Gilman St. and working on drainage infrastructure within the rail right-of-way. See the latest summary of upcoming work on MassDOT's GLX website.
Looking ahead this year, for much of 2019, bridges on Broadway, Washington St., and Medford St. will be closed at the same time. Head to the updated Bridge Closures & Detours tab to see traffic impacts for cars, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Join the GLX team for an open-house style public meeting on Wednesday, January 30, in the East Somerville Community School cafeteria from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Learn more about station designs, the Community Path extension, and upcoming traffic detours. Go to the Upcoming Events tab for more information.

Updated 1/4/2019

Mark your calendars: The GLX team will be hosting a public meeting on Wednesday, January 30, in the East Somerville Community School cafeteria from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The meeting will be open house style: Attendees can speak with representatives about station designs, the Community Path extension, traffic detours, and more.
During the week of January 7, within the road right-of-way, crews will be working between manholes near School St. pulling cables, but no traffic disruptions are expected.
Here's the latest on building demolition: Demo on 3rd Ave. is now expected to move forward in mid- to late-January. The Homans building will likely come down in February, followed by the buildings in Ball Sq. at the Boston Ave. / Broadway intersection.
Here's the latest on bridge closures: The Broadway Bridge is expected to close for a full year beginning on or around March 1. The underpass on Washington St. just east of McGrath Highway will close in April, and the Medford St. bridge behind Somerville High School will close in May.

Updated 12/21/2018

No work December 22 through December 25.
December 26 through the end of the week, GLX Constructors may continue ongoing abatement at the Homans Building on Medford St. between Pearl St. and School St. and test-pitting near the Broadway Bridge.
Within the rail right-of-way, drainage work will continue through the end of the month. As always, check the MassDOT biweekly construction outlook for a deeper dive.
Building demo is expected to begin in mid- or late-January, first at 3rd Ave. and the Homans Building, then proceeding to the Broadway / Boston Ave. intersection in Ball Square.
The Broadway Bridge is scheduled to close in March, and bridges on Washington St. and Medford St. will close shortly thereafter.

Updated 12/14/2018

During the week of December 17, GLX Constructors plans to continue abatement at the Homans Building, requiring lane shifts, parking restrictions, and closure of the sidewalk on Medford St. between Pearl St. and School St.

Within the rail right-of-way, work continues on retaining walls, noise walls, and drainage. Bookmark the MassDOT biweekly construction outlookfor more details.

According to latest estimates, two buildings on 3rd Ave. and the Homans Building on Medford St. will be demolished in mid-January. Demo at the Broadway / Boston Ave. intersection in Ball Square will follow, likely in early February.

The Broadway Bridge is scheduled to close in mid-March, and bridges on Washington St. and Medford St. will close shortly thereafter.

Updated 11/30/2018

Beginning in January, buildings at three sites will be demolished: First, on 3rd Ave., where a vehicle maintenance facility will go; next, the Homans Building, which will provide an off-road staging area during GLX construction; and then at the Broadway / Boston Ave. intersection, where the future Ball Sq. Green Line station will be.
Demo at 3rd. Ave. is expected to begin around the first week of January. Abatement there and at the Homans Building is already underway.
Within the rail right-of-way, crews continue drainage installation work, as well as the construction of retaining walls, noise walls, and a separation barrier to protect workers from the commuter rail. See the MassDOT biweekly construction outlook for more details.
Verizon has also been on the Broadway Bridge relocating conduit in advance of the bridge's demolition next year. They're expected to be finished there by the middle of the week.
The Broadway Bridge is scheduled to close in March, and bridges on Washington St. and Medford St. will close shortly thereafter.

Updated 11/28/2018

The Broadway Bridge, between Ball and Magoun squares, is now expected to close beginning in March 2019 for a full year. Bridges on Washington St. and Medford St. will also close for varying periods of time later in 2019.

This updated timeline is a result of the design-build process: As the project's design progresses, construction timelines and sequencing may change. The new schedule for the Broadway Bridge closure will not affect timelines for the other 2019 bridge closures or the completion of the overall project.

Updated 10/24/2018

GLX Constructors will be working overnight tonight, Wednesday, October 24, and Thursday, October 25, within the MBTA rail right-of-way between the Medford St. / Pearl St. intersection and the Washington St. / Joy St. intersection. During these times, crews will primarily be placing crushed stone known as “ballast” on the tracks and tamping it down beneath the rails. You may hear noise from trucks and other heavy equipment, but the work shouldn’t be excessively loud. Bright lights will be used within the work zone.

As a reminder, overnight work is also planned for this coming Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, October 26 to 28, between the Lowell St. and Washington St. bridges. Construction activities will include track grinding and leveling, heavy-equipment hauling, and pouring and spreading more ballast. These operations will include bright lights and can be noisy at times.

We apologize for the short notice about this schedule change. Working overnight this Wednesday and Thursday will allow GLX Constructors to finish the overnight work this weekend more quickly.

Daytime work will continue seven days per week. If you have questions or concerns, please email info@glxinfo.com, or call 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636).

Updated 10/18/2018

For the next two weekends, including the weekends of October 19 and October 26, overnight work is planned for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights between the Lowell Street and Washington Street bridges. GLX Constructors will be conducting track work and sporadic utility installation within the MBTA right-of-way, with most of the work taking place between Lowell St. and Central St. and near Washington St.

Construction activities will include track grinding and leveling, heavy-equipment hauling, and pouring and spreading of crushed stone. These operations will include bright lights and can be noisy at times.

Daytime work will continue 7 days per week. Please note that the City’s normal weekend construction hours are Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., but work within the rail right-of-way is not subject to the City ordinance and is therefore legal to occur outside of our ordinance requirements.

If you have questions or concerns, please email info@glxinfo.com, or call 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636).

Older Updates

Updated 9/27/2018

Videos of the August 29 and September 24, 2018 community meetings regarding the one-year closure of the Broadway Bridge are available at the links below:

Updated 8/30/2018

The City's presentation from the August 29, 2018 information session regarding the one-year closure of the Broadway Bridge is now available online.

Update 8/24/2018

On Saturday, August 25 and Sunday, August 26, between the hours of 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., GLX Constructors will be conduction demolition of an abandoned concrete pier adjacent to the Medford St. Bridge in Gilman Square, between Walnut St. and Pearl St. Because the work will require use of heavy demolition equipment like jackhammers and rammers, the work is expected to be loud in the immediate vicinity for at least the morning hours on Saturday. The work will be conducted in the rail right of way, and therefore no traffic impacts are expected.

Please note that the City’s normal weekend construction hours are Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; however, work within the rail right of way is not subject to the City ordinance and is therefore legal to occur outside of our ordinance requirements.

Updated 8/14/2018

GLX Community Meeting to Discuss Upcoming Bridge Closures, August 29

Although timelines are subject to change, current plans for the construction of the Green Line Extension (GLX) call for the full closure of the Broadway Bridge, just east of Ball Square, for one full year beginning in late 2018. While the bridge is closed, detours will be in place for cars, bikes, pedestrians, and MBTA bus routes 80 and 89.

Please join City of Somerville staff, Ward 5 Alderman Mark Niedergang, Ward 6 Alderman Lance Davis, and representatives from the GLX team for a community meeting on Wednesday, August 29, at 6 p.m. to discuss the upcoming bridge closure and detour routes. The meeting will be held at the Somerville Community Baptist Church, 31 College Ave.

Additional temporary bridge closures for varying periods are also planned for later construction phases in 2019 and 2020, including on Washington St. (between Union Square and Inner Belt), Medford St. (outside of Union Square), and School St. The meeting will touch upon these, but the Broadway Bridge closure will be the longest, most complex, and likely most impactful of all the bridge closures planned. This meeting will, therefore, focus primarily on upcoming construction and mitigation efforts in the Ball Square neighborhood this fall and through 2019.

For more information, including the latest proposed detours, please visit www.somervillema.gov/glx or www.greenlineextension.org.

Individuals with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication, written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures, in order to access the programs and activities of the City of Somerville or to attend meetings, should contact the City’s ADA Coordinator, Nency Salamoun, at 617-625-6600 x2323 or NSalamoun@somervillema.gov.

Updated 7/30/2018

MassDOT Meeting Presentation Materials Now Available

On July 18, 2018, MassDOT held a public meeting at Medford City Hall to provide updates and information on the GLX project.

You can view the full meeting presentation by clicking here. Key excerpts include:

The most recent draft of the Community Path design
Proposed detour options for MBTA Bus Routes:
- Route 80 and 89 detours during the Broadway Bridge closure (1 year - beginning November 2018)
- Route 86, 91, and CT2 detours during the Washington St. Bridge closure (2 phases - beginning April 2019)

Upcoming Work

On Saturday, August 4, GLX subcontractors will begin tree removals along the west/north side of the rail corridor, between Cross St. and Broadway. Work will be conducted on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month of August and will progress from the south (Cross St.) to north (Broadway). Work will be conducted between 6 a.m. and approximately 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Though the remainder of tree removals was originally scheduled to begin in early 2019, construction crews recently discovered that more tree work is necessary to facilitate construction of drainage systems along the rail right of way before more significant construction on retaining walls and building new tracks around the existing commuter rail line can begin. Due to the nature of the work, tree removals must begin earlier than anticipated. Additionally, following recent severe storms, a number of the remaining trees along the existing commuter rail line were heavily damaged and fell onto or near the tracks, creating hazardous situations.

If you have questions about this work, please visit www.greenlineextension.org, email info@glxinfo.com, or call 1-855-GLX-INFO (459-4636).

Updated 7/5/2018

Bridge Closures: Timeline and Detours

While all dates and information are subject to change, current proposals by the GLX team call for the full closure of the Broadway Bridge at Ball Square, just east of Ball Square, for one full year beginning in the fall of 2018. As it stands now, the closure would apply to all modes of transportation, including bicycles and pedestrians. Additional temporary bridge closures for varying periods are also planned for later constructions phases in 2019 and 2020.

Click here to see the latest proposed timeline for bridge closures, and click on the links below to see the latest proposed detour routes:

GLX Construction Timeline (DRAFT)

The GLX team proposed closing the Broadway Bridge for a year -- the longest of the closures outlined -- because they’ll be completely rebuilding that bridge. They also have to conduct demolition and construction around an active Commuter Rail line, which has implications for when their work can take place.

Detour routes are still under review. City staff, Community Working Group members, MassDOT, MBTA, and GLX Constructors continue to discuss the proposed closures at monthly Community Working Group meetings. Meeting presentations and minutes are posted at http://greenlineextension.eot.state.ma.us/CWG.html.

Ultimately, detour routes will be produced for local traffic, regional traffic, cyclists, pedestrians, and MBTA buses. City representatives have been working closely with first responders, school officials, and local businesses to develop plans to accommodate restricted access to Ball Square. They’re also working to understand longer-term considerations for routine City services like trash pickup, street sweeping, and snow plowing, as well as how GLX work will interact with utility projects and other City construction. We will provide more information as it becomes available.

Homans Building Demolition

The Homans building at 358 Medford Street in Gilman Square is scheduled for demolition this summer. Contractors are working closely with Somerville’s Historic Preservation Commission to ensure agreed-upon portions of the structure are preserved. Stay tuned for more information about a community-led event that will mark this new era for Gilman Square.

Contacts, Alerts, & Resources

For Urgent Questions or Concerns

Call the 24/7 GLX hotline at 1-855-GLX-INFO (1-855-459-4636) or email them at info@glxinfo.com.
Call 311 Constituent Services (617-666-3311) or email 311updates@somervillema.gov.

To Sign Up for Project Alerts/Updates

Sign up for City Alerts to receive a phone call, email, or text message prior to disruptive construction in your neighborhood.
Sign up for MassDOT’s GLX emails to receive periodic updates from the GLX project team.
Sign up for the City’s Construction Update to receive an email each Friday summarizing construction in Somerville planned for the week ahead.

To Learn More

Visit the MassDOT GLX project website.

To Discuss the Project With a Neighborhood Representative

The GLX project team developed a Community Working Group to enable information sharing between the project team and the public. The Working Group consists of representatives from each of the station areas in Somerville, Medford, and Cambridge. Working Group members provide assistance to the MBTA and to the community in identifying local issues of concern, facilitating dialogue, and planning agendas and topics for discussion at neighborhood and community meetings.

Contact the Station-Area Representative for your neighborhood:

At-Large: Michaela Bogosh, michaela.bogosh@gmail.com
Ball Square: Jennifer Dorsen, jdorsen@gmail.com
Brickbottom Neighborhood: Elliott Bradshaw, elliottbradshaw@gmail.com
East Somerville: Dylan Manley, Dylanm510@gmail.com
Gilman Square: Justin Moeling, glxjustin@gmail.com
Magoun Square: Ryan Dunn, ryandunn.glx@gmail.com
Union Square: Jim McGinnis, jim02143[at]gmail[dot]com

Frequently Asked Questions

Future Service and Station Design

How will the Green Line Extension benefit Somerville residents?

The GLX project aims to increase mobility, encourage public transit usage, improve regional air quality, ensure a more equitable distribution of transit services, and support opportunities for sustainable development. All new stations will meet or exceed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.

The GLX will:

Provide five new T stations in Somerville (plus a relocated Lechmere station in Cambridge and the College Ave. station in Medford)
Offer a one-seat ride from the region to downtown Boston, eliminating the need for bus and rail transfers
Extend the Somerville Community Path from its current end at Lowell St. to North Point Park, near the Museum of Science and the Charles River paths
Add 11 miles of new stormwater drainage
Put 85% of Somerville residents within a half-mile of a subway station, up from 15% today

Who is involved in the Green Line Extension design and construction process?

The GLX Project Management Team is made up of representatives from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), as well as some external consultants.
Green Line Extension Constructors (GLX-C) is the design-build contractor for the Green Line Extension project. GLX-C is a joint venture of four different engineering and construction firms: Fluor, Middlesex, Herzog, and Balfour Beatty. STV is GLX-C’s lead designer.
The Community Working Group (CWG) is a group of community representatives from each of the new station areas in Somerville, Medford, and Cambridge. Community Working Group members provide valuable assistance to the MBTA and the community in identifying local issues of concern, facilitating productive dialogue, and planning agendas and topics for discussion at neighborhood and community meetings.
The Cities of Somerville, Cambridge, and Medford work closely with all of the entities above.

Where will the new Green Line service run?

The GLX project will extend the existing MBTA Green Line 4.7 miles through Somerville and Medford.

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Lechmere station in Cambridge will be relocated across the street from its existing location to the northern side of Route 28. The new Green Line will extend from that relocated Lechmere station and fork in two directions:

One branch (the Medford branch) will run along the Fitchburg commuter rail line and service new stations in East Somerville, Gilman Square, Magoun Square, Ball Square, and College Ave. in Medford.

The other branch (the Union Square branch) will run along the existing Lowell commuter rail line and terminate at a new station in Union Square.

When will service along the Green Line Extension begin?

Service on the Union Square branch will begin March 21, 2022. Service on the Medford/Tufts branch is expected to begin in late summer 2022. The extended Community Path is expected to open with the Medford/Tufts branch. The MBTA will conduct extensive testing prior to the full opening, so you may see and hear Green Line cars on the new tracks before it’s open to the public.

Will the new Green Line service run underground?

No. Service along the Green Line Extension will run above ground within existing commuter rail corridors, next to existing commuter rail tracks. Since these corridors operate within their own right-of-ways, service along the Green Line Extension won’t have to contend with stop lights or other traffic, comparable to service along the existing D branch.

What time will the first trains depart from College Ave. and Union Square stations each day?

Train schedules have not yet been determined. Those will be worked out closer to the end of construction.

Will service on the new Green Line use new train cars?

Yes. The GLX project contract included the procurement of 24 new Type 9 cars. Service along the extension will use these, as well as older Type 7 and 8 cars (though the MBTA hopes that these will eventually be phased out as more new cars are procured).

What’s going on with the Community Path?

The Community Path extension delivered as part of this project is expected to open with the Medford/Tufts branch. This off-street multi-use path extends the existing Community Path from the current terminus at Lowell Street, through the Somerville Junction Park, along the south side of the raiload corridor with the community rail and the new light rails, and over a viaduct and bridge from Brickbottom to the Cambridge Crossing. Take a look at these slides for more information.

Construction and Bridge Closures

What should I know about bridge closures and detours?

Throughout 2019 and 2020, a series of bridges around the City will be closed for construction for varying lengths of time. In 2019, bridges on Broadway, Washington St. (just east of McGrath Highway), and Medford St. (behind Somerville High School) will close, and all cars, pedestrians, and MBTA bus routes that typically travel those routes will be detoured. Go to the Bridge Closures & Detours tab for more information.

Why will Broadway Bridge be closed for a whole year?

There are a few factors informing the duration of the Broadway Bridge closure. GLX Constructors will be completely demolishing the bridge, as well as its concrete abutments, and widening the existing rail alignment to make room for the new Green Line tracks. Then they’ll construct a longer bridge, to cover all four tracks, with utility and drainage improvements, as well as new painted bike lanes. The existing bridge’s design does not allow for a multi-staged demolition and reconstruction. The continuous yearlong closure provides the safest, fastest, and most cost-effective way to complete this work.

Why can’t MassDOT use the “Fast 14” rapid bridge-replacement method on the Broadway Bridge, like they did in 2011 on I-93?

The “Fast 14” method used to replace bridges by MassDOT in the past replaced only the top decks of existing bridges with only minor repairs to the concrete work. More extensive work is required on the Broadway Bridge, and essentially all of its infrastructure needs to be replaced (e.g., structural foundations, under-track drainage, and extensive support-of-excavation).

When will construction be going on during the day?

Construction activity is expected within the rail right-of-way seven days a week. Most work should take place between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., although daily schedules are subject to change.

Will construction happen overnight?

Yes. Since the majority of construction will happen within an active railroad right-of-way, completing work at night and on weekends, when rail traffic is light or has been suspended, is critical to completing the GLX project in a safe, timely, and cost-effective manner.

Work within the MBTA rail right-of-way does not fall under the City’s jurisdiction and is therefore not subject to the City’s noise ordinance; however, pile driving, drilling, and demolition operations are contractually prohibited between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.

The GLX Project Management Team will coordinate with the City to notify residents in affected areas 48 hours in advance of overnight work. Click here to ensure you’re enrolled to receive notifications from the City’s Alerts system.

How will I be notified about overnight work?

The City and the GLX Project Team will coordinate to notify abutters about 48 hours prior to overnight construction in your neighborhood. The City will send its notices to affected neighborhoods through the City Alerts system. Click here to make sure you’re enrolled to receive calls and emails in your preferred language.

Is there a plan to deal with rodents during construction?

Yes. As part of the GLX Constructors Pest Management Plan, A1 Exterminators placed nearly 500 baiting stations within the length of the right-of-way in the spring of 2018. Their service technicians are onsite at least one full day every week to monitor pest activity, conduct visual assessments, and address any areas of increased activity. Each of the 500 bait stations along the alignment is treated twice monthly. This abatement work will continue for the duration of the project.

Whenever possible, A1 will use non-pesticide technologies, such as trapping and monitoring devices. If pesticides are used, A1 will use only U.S. EPA- and state-approved products and will select those that pose the lowest potential hazard to humans, domestic pets, and the environment.

The City of Somerville also has its own rodent-control program to address pest management and prevention on multiple fronts. Click here to learn more about the initiative, including how to prevent rodent activity on your property and how to access free one-time abatement services.

Traffic Calming During Bridge Closures

What’s up with the flex posts I’m seeing in Ball Square and East Somerville?

In anticipation of increased traffic on neighborhood streets due to the closure of the Broadway and Washington St. bridges as part of the ongoing Green Line Extension project, the City has deployed flex posts as a quick and affordable method of traffic calming. These are intended to slow vehicles down, improve safety at crosswalks and intersections, and hopefully deter commuters from using these streets.

How were these locations chosen?

Streets that abut the official detour routes during the bridge closures have been prioritized. Of those streets, intersections that may be tempting cut-through routes for vehicles were highlighted as the best candidates for flex post treatments.

Why are the posts placed where they are at each intersection?

On two-way streets, posts are located on the centerline (whether it’s painted or not) to make the street feel narrower and keep vehicles from drifting into the other lane. Posts in the middle of the street are also generally set back about 20’ from the stop bar to allow bigger vehicles to make turns without running over the posts. Posts on the corners are intended to prevent vehicles from making right turns too quickly.

On one-way streets, posts are located 11’ apart on either side of the travel lane and have the same goal of making the street feel narrower. Where feasible, the posts have been placed as close as possible to crosswalks to highlight these locations and slow vehicles where pedestrians are most likely to cross the street.

What are the benefits of using flex posts for traffic calming?

Flex posts are affordable, easy to install, and can be effective traffic calming tools if put in the correct location. While they may seemingly pose as obstacles for vehicles like garbage trucks and fire engines, these bigger vehicles can straddle the posts and run them over if needed without causing damage to the post or the vehicle. Snow plows prove a greater challenge, and many of the posts will either need to be removed for the winter or replaced in the spring. The City recognizes that this will happen and is working on a maintenance strategy if it is decided that these posts should stay out on the street as part of a longer-term traffic calming solution.

Will there be additional work to accompany the posts?

Flex posts are just one element of a broader traffic-calming strategy developed in response to the GLX bridge closures and subsequent detours. Other interventions include the following:

New 20-mph safety zones recently installed in Ball Square and East Somerville. Increased police patrols will prioritize enforcement.
Supplemental pavement markings for traffic calming will be installed during the spring and summer.
Traffic volumes and speeds will be monitored regularly and evaluated against baseline data for 15 locations in the region.
The City is investigating installing planters and painting tan bump-outs at intersection corners to complement the flex posts. These are all affordable and easy-to-install traffic-calming methods that can be effective under a variety of circumstances.

How will you know if they’re effective?

Staff have already begun to monitor the effectiveness of the posts and will make adjustments as necessary. Speed studies will also be conducted in the coming weeks to find out if there is any effect on driver behavior.

What should I do if I see a post that’s been knocked over or removed?

Send a 311 request to the City to let us know if a post has been flattened or is no longer there. This is considered a pilot program, so at this time posts will not be immediately replaced and a maintenance strategy will be determined after evaluating how well the posts hold up at each location.

Background & Planning

Vision

After decades of advocacy, construction on the Green Line Extension is finally set to begin.

The GLX project will extend the MBTA Green Line from a relocated Lechmere Station in East Cambridge to Union Square in Somerville and College Avenue in Medford. By the close of 2021, Somerville’s five new T stations will be up and running in Union Square, East Somerville, Gilman Square, Magoun Square, and Ball Square. Trains will operate every five to six minutes in the peak periods, providing fast and efficient service to downtown Boston. The Somerville Community Path will also be extended from Lowell Street to Inner Belt Road.

The T extension is a key priority outlined in SomerVision, the City’s 20-year plan to make Somerville an exceptional place to live, work, play, and raise a family. Currently, 15% of the City’s population resides within half a mile, walking or biking, of a transit node. When the GLX is operational, that number will climb to 85%. We stand to see improvements not only to our infrastructure but to our collective health as a community -- physically, economically, socially, and environmentally.

History

For Somerville, the fight for the Green Line Extension has been a fight for environmental justice and transportation equity. In 1990, Massachusetts agreed to extend the Green Line to offset the pollution increase within Somerville caused by the Big Dig. Despite this legal commitment, however, the Green Line Extension project lagged far behind schedule, prompting the City of Somerville and the Conservation Law Foundation to file a lawsuit to keep the project moving.

In 2006, this litigation, with the help of community support and advocacy groups, finally brought about a multi-million dollar state investment in the Green Line extension from Lechmere Station into Somerville and Medford.

Community involvement has played a large role in the initiation and planning of this project, and it will continue to be a priority as construction moves forward. The GLX Community Working Group, consisting of representatives from Somerville, Medford, and Cambridge, provides guidance and input to the Executive Office of Transportation and Public Works. STEP, the Somerville Transportation Equity Project, has also been involved throughout the process, ensuring that the extension will result in social equity, environmental health, and decreased population to improve the health of Somerville residents.

Presentations & Public Meetings

Community Meeting/Info Sessions Re: Broadway Bridge Closure

Upcoming Events

Programs & Initiatives

HP 12C calculator alongside a stack of coins

Budget

An overview of how the budget process works and how it impacts residents and businesses in Somerville.

Careers

The City of Somerville has career opportunities for a diverse range of professionals and skill sets to reflect the culturally rich community we serve daily.

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