The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority's (MBTA) Fiscal and Management Control Board (FMCB) has unanimously approved a $18.5 million construction contract for the next phase of Red Line Winter Resiliency improvements.
The contract, awarded to Barletta Heavy Division, Inc., includes upgrades along 9.9 miles of the Red Line Braintree and Ashmont Lines. The upgrades include replacement of all third rail and heating systems, track and tie renewals, signals, track structure and conduit installations. The Red Line commuter rail serves Boston and the surrounding area.
"These critical investments in the resiliency of the MBTA’s core infrastructure and preparation for severe winter weather allow for upgrades that ensure more reliable service for the over one million daily riders who depend on the system each day," remarked Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker. "The Fiscal and Management Control Board continues to make significant progress on reforming the system, delivering transparency, cost-effectiveness and accountability for both taxpayers and commuters."
The first phase of Winter Resiliency Plan improvements completed in 2015 included new third rail and rail heater improvements along 13.6 miles of the Red Line from the Andrew Station portal to Quincy Adams.
The phase of work starting now and continuing through December will complete the third rail and rail heater improvements along the entire length of the Red Line South. Work will also include track and tie renewal between Savin Hill and Fields Corner Stations; signal trough and conduit installation between North Quincy and Braintree Stations; an track structure replacement at Quincy Center, Quincy Adams and Braintree Stations.
Brian Shortsleeve, acting MBTA general manager, remarked, "We look forward to building on the success of phase one during which miles and miles of new third rail was installed along outer portions of the Red Line. Working in tandem with Barletta, MBTA forces will continue to make the upgrades necessary to keep the subway operating no matter what Mother Nature throws at us."
The $18.5 million contract brings the total amount for infrastructure upgrades in preparation for the upcoming winter to $30.4 million.