MBTA to Replace Train Services with Shuttles This Weekend

FALL RIVER, Mass. — The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and Keolis Commuter Services are substituting select trains on the South Coast Rail with shuttle buses this weekend, April 19 and 20, due to staffing shortages.

This service adjustment affects the Fall River/New Bedford Line, which typically features 13 inbound trains from East Taunton on weekends, with seven from New Bedford and six from Fall River, as well as 13 outbound trips from South Station.

For Saturday and Sunday, a total of 10 trips — five inbound and five outbound — will be replaced by shuttle buses. Passengers can board these buses at each station along the Fall River/New Bedford Line.

“We understand how these changes impact our riders who deserve an appropriate level of service, and we want to express our appreciation for their continued support of transit by extending the fare-free weekend travel on this new line through the end of May,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng.

The decision comes as the South Coast Rail recently opened and has attracted a number of riders. Eng reiterated the agency’s commitment to enhancing service and stated that Keolis is actively training and increasing the number of qualified crews to ensure the long-term stability of the new line.

For more details on schedules and service changes, visit the MBTA’s official website. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.