Ashmont–Mattapan High-Speed Line
The Ashmont–Mattapan High-Speed Line, commonly referred to as the Mattapan Trolley, is a partially grade-separated light rail line which forms part of the MBTA's Red Line rapid transit line. The line, which runs through Boston and Milton, Massachusetts, opened on August 26, 1929, as a conversion of a former commuter rail line. It exclusively uses PCC streetcars built in the 1940s.[4] Passengers must transfer at Ashmont to access the rest of the Red Line, which uses heavy rail metro rolling stock.
Ashmont–Mattapan High-Speed Line
Mattapan Trolley
Mattapan Line
8
3,823 (2023)[1]
August 26, 1929 (Ashmont to Milton)
December 21, 1929 (Milton to Mattapan)[2]
2.54 miles (4.09 km)
Private right-of-way (largely grade-separated)
4 ft 8+1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge
43 ft (13.106 m)[3]
The trolley's 2.6-mile (4.2 km) route is used only by streetcars and has just two public grade crossings. All stations have low platforms, but all except Valley Road have been retrofitted with wheelchair lifts or wooden ramps for accessibility. Unlike most heritage streetcar lines, it is an integral part of the modern MBTA transit system rather than a tourist attraction. A rebuild of the line for modern light rail vehicles is planned.
Media related to Ashmont–Mattapan High Speed Line at Wikimedia Commons