Brady PieperOfficials from the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) are announcing a comprehensive plan to reconstruct the largest commuter rail station in Newton.
The Newtonville Station reconstruction project, led by the MBTA, will replace the existing station in Newton with the first fully accessible commuter rail hub in the city, providing critical upgrades that enhance safety, accessibility and convenience for riders. The rebuild will further improve Massachusetts’ transportation network and accessibility options for commuters of all abilities.
The $50 million project will combine financial support from federal, state and local sources, including $7 million in federal assistance from Community Project Funding.
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As one of only three commuter rail stations along the city’s I-90 corridor, Newtonville Station is the largest and most used rail hub in the city, despite only having one boarding platform in use.
Initially, MBTA and Newton officials sought to reconstruct all three of the stations in the city. But as costs for all three projects were higher than anticipated, only the Newtonville Station project became feasible.
The new station will feature two boarding platforms, which will make it easier for all passengers, including those with disabilities, to board trains efficiently. To limit costs, these platforms will be 400 feet in length, nearly half as long as the station’s current layout.
Despite this, officials anticipate this cost-saving change will still accommodate the growing number of bi-level coaches and higher frequency of service in the future.
The reconstruction project will include several additional accessibility improvements that will revamp commuters’ experience, including an up-and-over bridge for inclusive access, new elevators, benches, canopies and designated pick-up and drop-off areas.
The proposed Newtonville Station will feature new security enhancements, such as tactile warning strips, wayfinding signage and bicycle racks, to mitigate dangers and hazards for commuters. This will also include security upgrades like blue phones, CCTV cameras and lighting improvements.
While the design is not final, the project also plans to upgrade tracks and signals to modernize the station’s operations and efficiency.
The city and MBTA will conduct the project in phases and will require input from the transportation industry and local communities to ensure the design meets the needs of all passengers.
As the project progresses, MBTA will provide updates to riders on any changes to the Framingham/Worcester Line commuter rail schedule.
Officials for the Newtonville Station reconstruction project have yet to announce an official timeline but expect to unveil a construction schedule announcement during this planning process. The MBTA is still evaluating several construction contract procurement methods to complete the proposed Newtonville Station.
Photo courtesy 4300streetcar
