The reckless ruining of lives, no one held accountable, constant chaotic crises - no, it’s not Washington, it’s the MBTA. How embarrassing it is for Massachusetts that it took the Federal Transit Administration stepping in to get leadership to act. How disappointing it is that a leader of his caliber fell into the political trap of accepting the excuses and allowances so many have made - and are still making - for him: Decades of underfunding, not Charlie’s fault pre-existing obstacles, not Charlie’s fault an ancient and cumbersome system, not Charlie’s fault obstinate political gridlock, not Charlie’s fault. How ironic it is that the Charlie Baker governorship will be bookended by unprecedented MBTA disasters, with 8 years of intermittent appeals for action shelved in-between. This cancer of disparate treatment has metastasized and aggressive treatment is required. Until the decision makers have to wait in the lines, be vulnerable to gun violence, jump out the window of a burning train on their way to work, be given two weeks to find alternative ways to work, or deal with any of the countless other disrespectful behaviors the public has to endure, nothing will change. The decisions to optimize and exploit power benefit those in charge while all the negative ramifications and costs are borne by the powerless public. Look at Tesla, setting up a dedicated entryway from Mexico so as not to have to wait in line at the border like everyone else. Supreme Court justices received instant increased security while our nation’s children, decades after so many were and continue to be slaughtered by gunmen, wait while proposed solutions of locking doors and nonsense are discussed ad nauseum. Look no further than the lightning fast action of Congress when Justice Brett Kavanaugh was threatened by an individual carrying a gun in his neighborhood.
This unfortunate situation is not isolated to our public transit, it is endemic and spreading like cancer throughout our country, starting at the top of all our pillars. The MBTA failures never would have been tolerated under the stewardship of Governor Michael Dukakis, a daily T commuter. Until those in positions of power have to endure the consequences of their decisions, events like the recent fire and month-long service suspension on the Orange Line will not only continue but escalate further. Powerful thrive while costs are borne by the powerless public We should look to this guidance that requires workers be provided with water, rest and shade, and implement heat protocols to make sure workers repairing the T get home in good health each day. Some states do and OSHA has recommended guidance. Of particular note this hot week: Massachusetts currently does not have an enforceable labor standard to protect those working in hazardous heat conditions.
Similarly, attention and resources should be devoted to assuring those working to repair the T stay safe.
Massachusetts dedicated extra resources to workplace safety on the Big Dig - and the project had a relatively good safety record. It is critical to anticipate the health and safety needs of these workers and take steps now to assure that they are protected. These men and women will be working in the heat of the summer and under incredible time pressures. At the same time, the Greater Boston community should not lose track of those who will be working to repair the T. It’s hard to imagine the juggling required by individuals and employers over the next month to maintain livelihoods and operations. Sincere sympathies to all who rely on the Orange Line to get to and from work (” T hoping monthlong shutdown of the Orange Line will pay off,” Aug. As hard as it will be on commuters, don’t lose track of those making the repairs