Major MBTA Subway and Commuter Rail Disruptions Scheduled for Sunday, March 1

Sunday Traffic and Transit Outlook

Commuters and travelers in the Boston area should prepare for a challenging travel day this Sunday, March 1, 2026. Significant service changes are in effect across multiple MBTA subway and Commuter Rail lines as part of ongoing infrastructure modernization projects. While the roads are generally clear of major long-term construction closures like the Sumner Tunnel, heavy localized traffic is expected in the evening due to a high-profile event at TD Garden.

Significant MBTA Subway Alerts

The most substantial impact to the subway system is on the Orange Line. Service remains suspended between Back Bay and Forest Hills as part of a nine-day signal upgrade project that began yesterday. Free, accessible shuttle buses are replacing all train service between these stations. Riders should budget at least 30 minutes of additional travel time when using the shuttles.

On the Red Line, passengers on the Braintree Branch should expect longer travel times this evening. Signal modernization work near JFK/UMass is causing delays starting at 8:00 PM through the end of service. Transit officials recommend allowing an extra 15 minutes for trips heading south toward Braintree.

Commuter Rail Suspensions at North Station

A major signal system improvement project at the North Station Terminal Area is causing widespread disruptions on the northside Commuter Rail lines this Sunday. Service is currently suspended on the following routes:

• Fitchburg Line: No train service between North Station and Porter Square. Passengers are advised to use the Red Line for connections to and from Porter.
• Haverhill Line: Service is suspended between North Station and Oak Grove. Riders should utilize the Orange Line subway service as an alternative.
• Lowell Line: Service is suspended between North Station and Anderson/Woburn, with free shuttle buses operating between these points.
• Newburyport/Rockport Line: Trains are not running between North Station and Swampscott. Shuttle buses are providing service for the affected segment.

As an alternative for southside travelers affected by the Orange Line closure, the MBTA is offering fare-free service on the Franklin/Foxboro, Needham, and Providence/Stoughton Lines for travel between Forest Hills, Ruggles, Back Bay, and South Station.

Road Conditions and Event Traffic

For those driving, the Sumner Tunnel is open today; the weekend closure program was completed in late 2024, meaning Route 1A South is available for those traveling from East Boston and Logan Airport. However, drivers should anticipate heavy congestion near the West End and North End this evening. The Boston Celtics are hosting the Philadelphia 76ers at TD Garden with an 8:00 PM tip-off. Expect significant delays on Causeway Street, Lowney Way, and the surrounding ramps to I-93 both before and after the game.