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Winter Storm Affecting MBTA Buses, Commuter Rail

BOSTON (CBS) - Many people who didn't want to risk getting stuck in traffic opted for the MBTA during Tuesday's winter storm, even though it's had its problems lately too.

For the most part, the MBTA's underground subways and trolleys were on schedule. The Commuter Rail encountered numerous delays, however.

See:Check out the MBTA's website for a full, constantly updating list of alerts.

While the Green Line was up to speed, it wasn't as smooth with the MBTA buses, which had to fight the snow and traffic.

WBZ-TV's Bill Shields reports.

"Buses, obviously given this weather, the No. 1 priority is to operate safely, so there will be delays as a result of that," said Richard Davey, the MBTA General Manager.

COMMUTER RAIL

The consortium that runs the MBTA's Commuter Rail has canceled 14 shuttle services in an effort to reduce congestion on its lines during the next wave of a winter storm.

Spokesman Scott Farmelant says the cancelations are scheduled for Wednesday morning. They will enable the Massachusetts Bay Commuter Railroad Co. (MBCR) to have additional equipment on hand in case there are problems with other trains.

Commuters could still catch alternative trains 10 to 15 minutes after the canceled services.

Services affected include six trains between North Station and Anderson Woburn on the Lowell line as well as four between North Station and Beverly, on the Newburyport/Rockport line. Others include two trains between South Station and Walpole on the Franklin line as well as two between South Station and Mansfield, on the Providence/Stoughton line.

(TM and © Copyright 2010 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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