Construction begins on Massachusetts South Action commuter station

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
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MassDOT

In Massachusetts, ground broke on a new South Acton Commuter Rail Station, a project that will improve, expand and revitalize the busiest station on the Fitchburg Line.

“We are investing more than $150 million in state and federal funding to enhance transportation services along the Fitchburg Commuter Rail Line, the oldest rail line in the Commonwealth,” said Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray. “Today’s groundbreaking for the South Acton train station is bringing this region one step closer to renewed transportation services for hundreds of commuters.”

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority and Massachusetts Bay Commuter Rail Company worked closely with local officials and commuters to help meet the demand for improved service and amenities, while also reducing the MBTA’s operating and maintenance costs.

The design features new canopies, passenger shelters, benches, signage, a train approach warning system, variable message signs and enhanced security features, including lighting, closed circuit television, video surveillance cameras, emergency call boxes and public telephones.

The station will feature a modern, updated design with new fixtures and services and upgrades to the tracks that run through South Acton Station. The project will add a second mainline track on the southern side of the existing track, full-train length, high-level platforms on either side to allow for level platform-to-coach boarding and an enclosed overhead walkway over the tracks to connect the two platforms.

The project will increase residents’ access to the station with improved parking, a second drop-off/pick-up area and shuttle service to and from satellite lots through the Minutevan Commuter Rail Shuttle Service.

Work on the South Acton Station is expected to be complete by mid-2014.

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