MBTA's Orange Line eliminates slow zones for first time in 15 years

The MBTA's Orange Line is now free of slow zones for the first time in 15 years, according to General Manager Phil Eng. This change follows extensive track repairs and improvements as part of the agency's Track Improvement Program. Previously, the subway system had 191 speed restrictions, but that number has dropped to just seven. The Blue Line has been free of slow zones since May, and the Red and Green Lines are expected to follow suit by the end of 2024. Eng noted that recent shutdowns have allowed for significant track replacement, improving reliability and reducing wait times for riders. New Orange Line cars are also performing better than older models, with fewer failures reported.