In Boston's Back Bay neighborhood, Penn Central's CHICK Tower, formerly New Haven RR tower SS185, stood behind Northeastern University in what is now the general area of the MBTA's Ruggles station. This ex-NH GP9 was inbound past the tower with a short commuter train on a hazy day. The open area in the background once held a small freight yard. Today the tracks here are in an open cut with catenary overhead and two rapid transit tracks joining three Amtrak/MBTA tracks.
The 70's and 80's were a transition period for the MBTA characterized by an eclectic mix of equipment including Budd RDC's, ex-New Haven stainless steel coaches, and a mix of motive power acquired from various railroads.
The three biggest passenger carriers - Pennsylvania, New York Central, and New Haven - merged to create the ill-fated Penn Central, whose passenger losses and poor service led to the formation of Amtrak and state-owned commuter lines.
