But the federal government requires states to appoint an agency responsible for transit system safety. In Massachusetts, that role has fallen to the DPU for many years, according to a document on the agency's history.
The MBTA Orange line is seen here at Wellington Station in Medford where inspectors looked over damage from a fire in July. DPU spokesman Troy Wall in a statement said the agency"takes seriously its responsibility to ensure the safety of riders" on the T and welcomes the FTA's review. He said the utility regulator created a new job this month — director of rail transit safety — and is working to fill that post. DPU is collaborating with federal authorities"to ensure the MBTA’s corrective action plans are both sufficient and properly executed.
Some of the candidates running to replace Baker are calling for more outside oversight of the MBTA. Republican Chris Doughty's campaign told WBUR in a statement that, if elected, he would implement"frequent third-party audits to ensure safety." His primary opponent, Geoff Diehl, did not respond to a request for comment.