Baker Says MBTA Still In 'Tough Shape'

BOSTON (AP) — Gov. Charlie Baker says the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority remains in "very tough shape" despite significant improvement under a special panel overseeing Boston's transit system.

The Republican offered a detailed assessment of the MBTA on Wednesday, one year after the Fiscal Management and Control Board began its work.

The board was created after a severe winter crippled the T and exposed widespread managerial and financial problems.

Baker says a lot has been done and a lot learned in the past year. He says the T has hired new leadership, reined in operating expenses, reduced overtime and absenteeism and taken initial steps to replace antiquated equipment.

But he says much more is needed, including new contracting procedures, greater capital investment and an overhaul of an employee pension system in "freefall."

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Karyn Regal reports

In:
• Charlie Baker
• Nicole Jacobs