Following the installation of rail safety technology known as Positive Train Control (PTC), the Fitchburg Line’s new Spring 2021 schedule will take effect on Monday, May 3. This regional rail style of service has been in effect across all other Commuter Rail lines since April 5.

The Spring 2021 schedule provides more trains during the middle of the day, offering more consistent service options, and is a significant service increase compared to the current Winter Schedule that has been in effect since December 2020. Shuttle bus service that has been in place between Littleton and Alewife during PTC installation will end when new Fitchburg Line schedules go into effect on May 3.

Service on the Fitchburg Line will now operate hourly, with trains departing Wachusett Station every hour at 25 minutes after the hour. This service pattern encourages ridership growth with increased and regular frequency as well as ease of trip planning thanks to train times evenly spaced throughout the entire day. Outbound service from North Station will operate every hour on the half-hour all day. On Weekends, no Commuter Rail trains operate on the Fitchburg Line.