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The MBTA is decommissioning its Overhead Catenary System (OCS) which had supported its recently retired Electric Trolley Bus Fleet. Battery Electric Bus (BEB) service is being implemented throughout its service area. There is an extensive OCS in Cambridge, and it was entirely de-energized in March 2022. The MBTA is designing the removal of the entire OCS, including the overhead (OH) wires, associated poles, underground wires.
The MBTA is working closing with the City of Cambridge to coordinate a phased removal. There are also several Cambridge construction and separated bike lane (SBL) projects that will benefit from the OH wires and poles being removed. The Cambridge Department of Public Works (DPW) has requested an expedited removal of the OH wires on Huron Street, Aberdeen Ave and Belmont Street to facilitate construction activities in this area.
To expedite the OH wire removal, the MBTA is utilizing its internal Power Department to perform this work. This phase of the work includes the removal of electrical and support wires. Based on staff resources and other needs of the MBTA system, the MBTA is mobilizing crews as resources are available. The work for the Huron Ave/Aberdeen Ave/Belmont Street area is scheduled to begin on September 9, 2022 and will involve cutting and removal of OH wires.
Necessary equipment includes cutting equipment, bucket trucks, platform trucks, support vehicles and light towers for any night work. There will be day and overnight shifts depending on crew availability. Attempts will be made to minimize overnight work by scheduling day shifts beginning at 6:00am when possible. The work is expected to be completed by November. Given the fluid scheduling of the work due to available resources and weather, the MBTA will continue to coordinate with the DPW for assistance with notifications and police detail requests.
For questions regarding this work, please contact Kate Riley, Community Relations Manager, Department of Public Works, 617-349-4870 / kriley@cambridgema.gov.
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