MBTA announces $22 million in accessibility improvements to Science Park/West End Station

MBTA General Manager Rich Davey joined elected officials and members of the West End community at the Science Park/West End Station Thursday to announce $22 million in accessibility improvements to the station, including 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.

“With the support of the Patrick/Murray Administration we are on the road to ensuring all persons have access to public transportation,” Davey said. “This project is testament to the administration’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all individuals who take public transportation.”

Renovations to the station include the installation of new at-grade automated fare collection lobbies, elevated platforms with canopy roof, elevators and stairs. Other work entails upgrades to signage and the installation of fire protection and alarm systems, as well as an emergency generator for the station.

These improvements will make the station, which was built in 1954, fully accessible and bring it into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Enhanced lighting and additional surveillance cameras will also increase the station’s comfort and safety levels. Project completion is slated for the spring of 2012.

“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.”

State Rep. Marty Walz said, “The residents of the West End have waited a long time for a T station that all people can use. 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.”

City Council President Michael Ross added, “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.”

Also on hand at last week’s groundbreaking ceremony were members of the West End Civic Center’s Leverett Circle Committee, who advocated tirelessly for accessibility improvements to the station for years, including Marie Cantlon, Louise Thomas, Marlene Meyer and Paul Schratter.