MBTA Celebrates Natick Center Station Upgrades
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
The MBTA completes upgrades at Natick Center Station.
Courtesy of MBTA
NATICK, Mass. - The MBTA has completed major accessibility upgrades at Natick Center Station on the Framingham/Worcester Commuter Rail Line.
The MBTA says it is the 11th station to receive improvements this year, with another 30 stations expected to be upgraded over the next five years. By 2030, the MBTA says it is “on track” to upgrade and make accessible close to 95% of stations. As one of the top 25% busiest Commuter Rail stations, the MBTA renovated the station to improve customer experience and accessibility. With a budget of $40 million, the project included replacing the pedestrian bridge, updating amenities such as new canopies, bicycle parking, and signage, and making streetscape improvements. Crews also worked to add full-length, high-level platforms for better boarding access.
In addition, crews replaced 1,440 feet of track and 1,160 ties. There are new elevators and ramps to provide accessible pathways, and upgraded audible and digital communication systems. Crews also worked to enhance security systems to include upgraded camera technology and improve climate resiliency by upgrading drainage infrastructure.
“The MBTA team takes great pride as we continue to deliver improved service and rebuild our facilities across all modes. With the completion of Natick Center Station, we are able to provide for our riders a modern, fully accessible station with state-of-the-art technology,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “I thank the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their leadership as we strive to ensure that the communities and businesses we serve have the mass transportation system they deserve and need.”
