BOSTON, MA (WBZ-AM) – Despite the bitter freezing temperatures, The MBTA and Keolis are working to keep the trains on the commuter rail moving.
“First focus for our team is passenger safety the first thing we do is we ensure that all the platforms are sanded and salted and that passengers can have a safe experience in the commuter rail,” said Tory Mazzola Spokesperson with Keolis, the company contracted to provide service for the Commuter Rail.
They are also working on keeping equipment working.
“The second thing we do in terms of when the cold weather comes in like we're seeing today and earlier this week. Is we focus on infrastructure so that means maintaining the fleet in a different way that it can be managed during you know zero degree temperatures,” he said.
Additionally, Keolis says they have crews pre-positioned to make sure that if something does happen they can respond as quickly as possible.
Despite a couple minor issues on the Needham and Fitchburg line, delays related with an Amtrak conflict, a mechanical issue and weather, Mazzola says they have operated at a 93-percent performance rate.
Commuters are urged to check MBTA.com for any delays and cancellations.
WBZ NewsRadio1030’s Ben Parker reports.