Full MBTA service not promised before March 30

By News Staff

news@abc6.com

The MBTA is saying it can not promise to restore full service until March 30.

The company that runs the commuter rail, Keolis, announced Thursday that it will try to operate at 78% of passenger capacity on Friday, but will not promise full service until March 30.

“We will do everything we can to accelerate that process,” Keolis said in a statement. “We know you have waited on cold platforms and been late to work or had a difficult time getting home at night,” Keolis CEO Bernard Tabary said.

ABC6 News caught up with some passengers at the Attleboro Train Station, who are not happy about the announcement. “I’ve been commuting about seven years and this is the worst I’ve ever experienced,” said Mary Dodge of Attleboro.

Keolis officials met with Governor Charlie Baker Thursday, saying Baker had approved its plan to get commuter rail service back to full service.

In the meantime, the Peter Pan Company is offering bus services for travelers south of Providence, where the commuter rail has been suspended. Starting Friday, there will be buses covering all morning, afternoon and evening trips.

© WLNE-TV 2015