Interim general manager Jeff Goneville told reporters on Friday afternoon that the T is “optimistic” that the 25 mph speed limit will be lifted across the Green Line by Saturday morning.
By early Saturday, however, the agency had reversed course and said restrictions would remain in place after several issues were uncovered. Location of speed signs during Green Line test train runs.
In a follow-up statement issued around 2:00 p.m., the agency said the restrictions will remain in place at least until the end of the service.
“Because MBTA continues to prioritize safety and requires further evaluation and verification of specific locations, we are unable to lift speed limits across the Green Line at this time,” the statement said.
Authorities have identified 30 speed limit signs that need to be relocated on the Green Line and work is underway to move them, the statement said.
“MBTA apologizes for the continued disruption of service to passengers,” it said.
speed limit of 10 to 25 mph Part of Blue Line, Orange Line, Red Line, Mattapan Lineaccording to the MBTA website.
The regulations were enforced “while track inspections were taking place,” officials said.
Gonneville, MBTA and Gov. Maura Healy’s office have not released information about how transit agencies can no longer track safety records.
A Healy spokesperson said in a statement Friday night, “Initial reviews indicate that staff vacancies have contributed to documentation issues, but the governor has asked MBTA to thoroughly review the situation. A thorough review was conducted and immediate corrective action was taken to ensure accountability.
Healey has asked Congress for $20 million to improve recruitment and retention of MBTA staff, she said Friday.
The agency warned that the transportation system would be packed on Sunday due to the crowds traveling to the T parade, according to a statement.
Parade-goers were encouraged to access the Rider’s Guide at: mbta.com/stpatricksday Plan ahead for getting around the city during the celebration.
MBTA says passengers should plan for extra travel time on Sundays and encourages people to preload their CharlieCards and CharlieTickets.
MBTA’s Transit Navigation Crew is an employee-led volunteer group that works with T employees to help passengers navigate the system on Sundays.
A free shuttle service will be provided between South Station and South Boston, according to a statement.
Globe staff Taylor Dolven and Amanda Kaufman contributed to this report.
John Hilliard can be reached at john.hilliard@globe.com.
