MBTA withdraws Turnback Track proposal, without prejudice, following community feedback
(3-4 minute read)
The MBTA has officially withdrawn its Notice of Intent (NOI) for the proposed Turnback Track project near Vine Street in Reading - marking the second time the proposal has been withdrawn without prejudice, meaning the MBTA can refile the project again at any time.
In an email to town officials, Cameron Doherty of MBTA Government Affairs explained the decision and acknowledged the importance of community feedback in the process.
“... [T]he MBTA has withdrawn our Notice of Intent for the turnback track at the proposed location near Vine Street. After many internal conversations and in light of feedback from the community, we have come to the decision to not pursue the turnback track at the location we’ve discussed over the last several months.
We are actively discussing and vetting alternative locations for the turn, but a location has not been determined at this time. Please know that we will continue to communicate with town officials when we have any updates to share.
It’s important that we as a public agency act as a good neighbor, and it was clear to us that the proposed location was not viable for the community members that we aim to serve. I want to thank you all for the dialogue we’ve had over the last several months and for your advocacy on behalf of the town.”
A history of withdrawals and community concern
This most recent withdrawal follows a long series of community discussions and feedback opportunities:
The first NOI for the project was filed on November 26, 2024, and later withdrawn on February 25, 2025, shortly before a community forum held at the Pleasant Street Center.
The second NOI was submitted on September 23, 2025, following another community forum held on September 15, 2025.
On October 27, 2025, the Reading Select Board convened a special meeting to allow members of the Reading Turnback Committee to share concerns and questions regarding the proposed project and the MBTA’s data collection methods.
Looking ahead
According to Doherty’s statement, the MBTA is evaluating alternative locations for the turnback track and has pledged to maintain open communication with Reading officials and residents throughout the process.
However, residents remain cautiously optimistic. Many have expressed skepticism after the MBTA made similar commitments to engage with the community following the February 2025 withdrawal, with limited outreach occurring before the next proposal was filed in September.
Local leaders and residents hope that, moving forward, the MBTA will uphold its commitment to meaningful engagement, ensuring that any future proposals are developed transparently, collaboratively, and with full consideration of community impact.
