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COMMUTER ALERT: Normal service resumes, but plan for delays on T, Commuter Rail

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority is warning commuters that it could be another long ride to work Friday morning as downed trees and transmission lines are still hampering service.

Officials say service should return to a normal schedule Friday, but riders should leave extra time to arrive at final destinations because of the storm clean-up.

MORE: Commuter Rail train derails in Wilmington; no injuries reported

The MBTA and Keolis, the company that runs the Commuter Rail for the T, said crews have removed nearly 100 trees from the tracks, and repaired seven train sets damaged during the most recent nor’easter.

Keolis told Boston 25 News teams cleared 35 trees overnight and proactively removed another 40 that were at risk for falling.

Officials also said crews will clear another 35 trees after the Friday morning rush.

Just as power is out for homes and businesses on the North Shore and Merrimack Valley, main grid power is out to the Commuter Rail lines, forcing the use of 50 generators at one point.

A Commuter Rail train derailed during the nor’easter Thursday in Wilmington, but luckily no injuries were reported.

Commuters responded to the derailment and other route cancelations Thursday.

“It made me late for work,” Ann Aikens said. “I tried to go in early, and I tried to come home late. I got home later and I’m glad it’s running at all.”

For Friday, the backup generator power does impact the lines’ signal systems, so delays are expected during the commute.

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