History:
Boston's South Station opened in 1899 with 28 tracks. In it's early days, it was busier than New York's Grand Central Station. Within 30 years of its opening, the station began deteriorating and passenger numbers began declining as the Great Depression hit. During WWII, soldiers travelling through the station brought the passenger numbers back up. This was followed by yet another decline in visitors as rail travel became less convenient. In the 1960's the east wing of the station and 18 of the tracks were demolished to make space for the US Postal Service distribution center. The whole rest of the station was almost demolished, but was saved in 1978 when the MBTA bought it. A 5 year restoration project, which ended in 1989, consisted of the renovation of the 11 tracks with new platforms, a new headhouse, a new bus terminal, and a new parking garage. Today, South Station is operating over-capacity with just 13 tracks, which is why expansion is necessary.
Expansion Project:
MassDOT, Amtrak, HNTB, MBTA, Massport, and the City of Boston are working together to expand South Station.The South Station Expansion Project is planned to accomodate the demands of today and the future. The project will improve safety, comfort, convenience, and accessibility for passengers. The project goals include more tracks to accomodate growth, improved infrastructure to allow more efficient train movements, and more train storage space to prevent the clog of tracks. The plans also include more platforms with multiple access points to decrease passenger congestion and more amenities such as restrooms, food places, and shops. There will be more signs, interactive kiosks, and clearly defined pathways throughout the concourses to make the passenger experience easier and more convenient.
Project Benefits:
The benefits of expanding South Station do not just affect the passengers, but also all of the people in Boston as well as the environment. When more people travel by train, there is less car use. This results in a reduction in fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and traffic congestion. Also, by using rail, airports will become less congested while there will also be a decline in air pollution. Personal safety will improve with the enhanced sidewalks, bike facilities, and roadways planned for the expansion. The project will make way for new businesses, workers, and residents to come to the area. This will create new jobs in construction and many other fields. Another benefit of the South Station Expansion Project is the potential for public-private development in the surrounding areas that can spur new housing, restaurants, stores, and public places.
SOuth Station Expansion Project Prjoect
Boston, Massachussetts
South Station Expnasion Project 20