Patrick-Murray Administration Announce Accessibility Improvements To Science Park/West End Station

BOSTON - Thursday, May 27, 2010 - Continuing the Patrick-Murray Administration's commitment to providing accessible transportation service to all residents of the Commonwealth, MBTA General Manager Rich Davey joined local officials and members of the West End community at the Science Park/West End Station to announce a $22 million investment for accessibility improvements to the station. The project includes the construction of two elevators that will provide access from a new street level lobby to the train platforms at the top of the viaduct.

"Our singular focus in the reform of the Commonwealth's transportation system is to renew our commitment to customer service and improving access for all," said Governor Deval Patrick.

"It's our job to make sure that each and every one of our customers has safe access to our transportation system. We aim to make the traveling experience safe, easy and more efficient for all Massachusetts residents," said MassDOT Secretary and CEO Jeffrey Mullan.

Excited to officially announce accessibility improvements to Science Park station, MBTA General Manager Rich Davey remarked, "With the support of the Patrick/Murray Administration we are on the road to ensuring all persons have access to public transportation. This project is testament to the Administration's commitment to improving the quality of life for all individuals who take public transportation."

Built in 1954 with minimal renovations over the years, rehabilitation to Science Park will include brand new at-grade automated fare collection (AFC) lobbies, new elevated platforms with canopy roof, new elevators, and stairs. Additional work includes upgrades to signage, installation of fire protection and alarm systems, and a generator for emergency power to the station.

FTA believes transit provides critical "lifeline" services that connect all members of the community with employment, health, educational, and other important opportunities and services,” said FTA Region I Civil Rights officer Margaret Griffin. “Providing accessibility to Science Park Station will provide a new transit option for people with disabilities as well as improving the station for all riders making the community more livable for everyone.”

“This is a great day for the West End Community,” said City of Boston Transportation Commissioner Thomas Tinlin. “Access to Science Park station will soon be a reality providing people with disabilities an enhanced sense of independence. The quality of life for members of the community will improve dramatically,” added Tinlin.

"The improvements to the Science Park/West End Station will be a welcomed addition to the area. This investment will finally allow for equal accessibility for all MBTA riders and bring the station up to ADA standards," said Senator Anthony Petruccelli.

"The residents of the West End have waited a long time for a T station that all people can use," said Representative Marty Walz whose district includes the West End. "I am delighted that once the station is complete, those with limited mobility, families with strollers, and those people who struggle with stairs will no longer have to walk to North Station to take the T."

"I commend the MBTA and the Governor's administration for their diligence in working with the community towards making this station fully accessible and safe to the disabled and elderly residents of the West End," said Boston City Council President Michael Ross.

Slated for completion in spring 2012, renovations to Science Park will make the station user-friendly, and enhanced lighting and additional surveillance cameras will increase the station's comfort and safety levels. Science Park station serves approximately 2,100 daily customers.