The MBTA and Keolis Commuter Services (Keolis), the operations and maintenance partner for the MBTA’s Commuter Rail, has completed a project to replace over 28 miles of rail on the Fairmount Line.  The work prepares the line for the introduction of battery-electric trains in the coming years, while ensuring a reliable and safe ride for passengers today. This project alone replaced more rail than is typical across the entire Commuter Rail network in a year.

On December 1, 2025, the Fairmount Line will return to its normal schedule, with 30-minute service throughout most of the day. The schedule will be available soon at mbta.com/cr.

In July 2024, the MBTA Board of Directors approved a Keolis proposal to electrify the Fairmount Line with battery-electric trains.  The rail replacement work is the first step in bringing these trains to the line.  The new trains will provide faster, quieter, more reliable service with notably less air pollution in the environmental justice corridor served by the Fairmount Line. Additionally, passengers will benefit from smoother rides, more space, and a modernized, quieter travel experience with less noise and vibration. These trains use hybrid power, with an onboard battery that charges when overhead catenary wires are available. The rail replacement work is the first step in bringing these trains to the line.

Crews replaced nearly 158,000 feet of rail after the $12 million project began in June. The record pace ensured that the work could be finished on time while still operating trains on the line during peak travel periods.

While the construction schedule was in place, crews also completed other important projects, including power washing and deep cleaning all stations and platforms, removing graffiti, cleaning trash from the right of way, brush clearing, and improving drainage.

-via Press Release