Parking Improvements Slated For Beverly Depot CR Station

MBTA General Manager Daniel A. Grabauskas announced today improvements to Beverly Depot Commuter Rail Station. Working cooperatively with Beverly Mayor William Scanlon, Senator Fred Berry, and State Representative Mary Grant, MBTA project staff identified necessary improvements to the station, and preliminary work is underway. Upgrades to the station will include the construction of an at-grade commuter parking lot to accommodate approximately 100 vehicles, the replacement of mini-high platforms, and the designation of a bus drop-off area. The at-grade parking lot would be a preliminary step toward construction of a new parking garage that will primarily serve commuters using the Beverly Depot station.

Noting that improvement efforts such as these need the collective support of federal, state, and local officials to be realized, MBTA General Manager Grabauskas said, “The slated improvements to Beverly Depot are the result of support from all levels of government. The MBTA is fortunate to have positive relationships with Beverly officials who maintain a focus on public transportation. We will continue our mission to improve the T’s infrastructure to provide an efficient, user-friendly public transportation service to our customers.”

Mayor Bill Scanlon said, “I am very pleased to hear that the T is poised to undertake this work. It will provide additional off street parking and other accommodations for people using public transportation in both the near and long term, and that’s a great thing.”

Presently, the MBTA is conducting necessary land surveying and taking the first steps in acquiring parcels adjacent to the existing station. The estimated project cost is $4.5 million and work is slated to begin in the Fall of 2008.

"Thanks to Congressman Tierney's initial outreach for federal funding and Mayor Scanlon's vision, this idea has momentum and support at every level of government. These improvements mean a better quality of life for the citizens of Beverly, and a more accessible and efficient depot for the commuters who utilize it," said Senate Majority Leader Fred Berry.

“The City has needed additional commuter parking around the Depot for some time, and I am delighted the MBTA is working closely with the City to provide those facilities,” said State Representative Mary Grant. “This project benefits not only the riders, but also those who live and work nearby.”