MassDOT Plans Big Upgrades to Braintree Station

BRAINTREE, MA — The Braintree MBTA station is about to get a facelift in the form of a $30 million renovation.

The state’s Department of Transportation held a public forum at Town Hall on the changes last week, touting the safety upgrades of the project.

In addition to the safety measures, a net gain of around 55 spaces is expected. The work will make the garage ADA compliant, along with elevators and other handicapped accessible features. By the time it’s done, the garage could look a bit different. The bridge to the station will be demolished and replaced with a canopy between the garage and train station, according to the presentation.

The renovations also include a new emergency system, security camera upgrades, LED lights, and various parking upgrades around the station and garage.

During construction, the town has offered to provide land across the street as a temporary 130-vehicle parking lot.

The renovation could mean good things for the town. Mayor Joseph Sullivan said there have been positive conversations regarding the redevelopment of the Carter-Rice building, partially attributing the movement to the MBTA.

The possibility of adding another level to the garage was discussed, but that would be a separate project.

The project is expected to take 23 months and has a target finish date of July 2019.

Image: File Photo