Community Corner
Log Jam on the Commuter Rail Angers Passengers
By the time the Newbury/Rockport train pulled into Swampscott, there was simply no room.
SWAMPSCOTT – The MBTA Newbury/Rockport commuter rail line has suffered from overcrowding as of late, causing passengers to be turned away and fares to go uncollected as trains make their final stops into Boston.
The problems Tuesday morning, according to passengers who were tweeting about the crisis, seemed to occur prior to the Salem and Swampscott stops, four and five stops away respectively from the train's final destination at North Station.
@MBTA_CR @MBTA Newburyport 156 train is full before Swampscott. No fares collected since Hamilton. T fails again. pic.twitter.com/tFdxvr97LH
— Kim Bitto (@Kimmyb2) June 21, 2016
The crowds caused a delay at Swampscott as passengers struggled to board.
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@MBTA_CR NO ONE can get on or off this train. We're just sitting at Swampscott. What is wrong with you guys?!! pic.twitter.com/N6U6djqjTH
— Paul Massari (@Mr_Crankypants) June 21, 2016
@MassGovernor cuts budget @MBTA_CR raises fares and we pay for it all! 7:40 Swampscott train @BostonGlobe pic.twitter.com/XASYIYUcNL
— Tom Bogacz (@tombogacz) June 21, 2016
Passengers have been complaining about the lack of seats and the lack of fare collection since a new schedule was introduced to the line May 23.
@MBTA I was standing at the Swampscott inbound train and you just left me behind. What the hell? How do I get home?
— BoZack Horseman (@ZackHickman) June 20, 2016
@CharlieBakerMA say hello to your Swampscott neighbors. This is a typical 540 Newburyport line scene. @MBTA_CR pic.twitter.com/TO23i1niuQ
— CantTweet (@FailingAtMost) June 15, 2016
@MBTA_CR should I be anticipating a #freeridewed today with #standingroomonly for the 9th day in a row? Swampscott 740
— C.P. (@CommuterBitch) June 15, 2016
@MBTA_CR @MBTA The 156 is full (no seats) even before it gets to Swampscott!?!?! When will you add cars?
— Denis (@mtnbikerdenis) June 6, 2016
@MBTA_CR You need to add cars to the 7:40am Inbound from Swampscott. Turned people away! Couldn't get on. New schedule is NOT working!!
— Denis (@mtnbikerdenis) May 31, 2016
Photo courtesy of Kim Bitto
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