In tough fiscal times, grandiose transit plans never die - they're just shelved Right now, most of the energy and money is going toward a Green Line extension in Somerville and Medford, but the state cannot guarantee that it will have the money to get past Tufts University, even though the plan calls for it to extend to the Mystic Valley…
Thanks to everyone who came by to see us Saturday during ArtBeat and expressed support and interest in the Green Line and other Somerville transportation needs!
"After thirty years, Somervillians prepare for Green Line Extension" In each location, from the neighborhood surrounding the Lowell Street stop to College Avenue, general themes have arisen to indicate the priorities of Somerville's residents. "The common points," Regan said, "are wanting to make sure there is good access to stations, a minimal effect on parking and a desire to protect small…
"Green Line extension funding in question" "The Green Line expansion, estimated to cost $600 million in recent years, is now listed by the Patrick administration at $934 million, with hopes that the federal government will pay half the costs. And that money will build tracks and stations only to Union Square and Tufts University by 2014, a legal deadline set to…
Although the State still expresses support for a Route 16 terminus for the Green Line, ongoing funding problems have changed the plan. Now there will be a two-phase build, with Phase 1 including the Lowell Line branch to College Ave and the Union Square branch. Phase 2 will extend the Green Line to Route 16 “shortly after” Phase 1, using “flex” funding recently voted on by the Boston Region MPO.
Next steps:
– The Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment (DEIR/EA) will be submitted in August.
– There will be a public hearing and comment period about this important report.
– The State will apply for federal New Starts funding this fall.
Keep reading for the full letter from the State to the members of the Green Line Extension Advisory Group.
"Residents gather to discuss Green Line changes "
Banker & Tradesman: “Call It âNoPoint’: New Lechmere Station Is The Least Of Troubled NorthPoint Project’s Woes”
Forget that $70 million MBTA station. When it comes to building out Cambridge’s troubled NorthPoint project, relocating Lechmere Station won’t be the half of any developer’s worries. That’s because new internal documents show the public infrastructure tab on the project is a staggering $257 million.
Boston Globe: "T riders face nearly 20 percent fare hike" Commuters who depend on public transportation could soon pay nearly 20 percent more to ride buses, trains, and trolleys under a wide-ranging fare proposal unveiled yesterday.
Every year, the State files an Annual Status Report for the SIP commitments, which include the Green Line extension. This year's report includes the following updates: - The project has been included in all relevant state transportation planning documents, including the RTP. - The State officially recommends the Route 16 terminus for the extension. - Regarding the maintenance facility at Yard…
"Residents say initial Orange Line design needs to better maximize ridership" Somerville's first community meeting regarding the Orange Line T stop at Assembly Square has residents less than pleased about a design that seems too inflexible, does not include a second head house or station nor have enough visibility to attract riders.