October 19, 2023 (BOSTON, MA) – MBTA officials confirmed today that the issues on the Green Line Extension to Medford and Somerville are far worse than previously announced. The tracks on most of the recently opened line were installed too close together. Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) filed lawsuits and fought for decades to get the extension opened and released the following statement in response to today’s news.
“This level of dysfunction and irresponsibility defies explanation,” said CLF attorney Seth Gadbois. “The previous administration was clearly more interested in cutting a ribbon than getting this project done safely and correctly. CLF sued to ensure that this extension was built, and this is now an opportunity for the Healey administration to commit to public transit and repair public trust.”
An agreement forged in 1990 between CLF and state officials resulted in many promised transportation improvements to offset increased emissions from the Big Dig. Besides the Green Line extension to Somerville and Medford, CLF pushed for expanded high occupancy vehicle lanes, significantly expanded Commuter Rail service, a connection between the Red and Blue subway lines, and the creation of the Silver Line. The extension finally opened in 2022.
CLF experts are available for further comment.
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