Green Line Extension Gets Green Light from Feds

SOMERVILLE, MA – The Green Line Extension will move forward after the Federal Transit Administration approved the new cost estimate for the revised project, according to the Boston Globe.

The MBTA had to submit a new cost estimate to the FTA after putting a hold on the original project amid skyrocketing budget estimates. FTA approval allows the new, scaled-down Green Line Extension project to proceed and begin spending federal dollars.

The $2.3 billion project will add seven new stops in Somerville and Medford by the end of 2021.

SEE ALSO: • Green Line Extension Projects 2021 Opening

• Somerville Aldermen Approve $50M Green Line Extension Funding

• Three Design-Build Firms on Short List for Green Line Extension Project

The redesign includes a reduction in station size, the vehicle maintenance facility and walls and bridges, as well as a name change for two of the stations – they will now be called Magoun Square and East Somerville.

Most significantly, the Somerville Community Path, a key commuter thoroughfare for bicyclists and pedestrians, has been scaled back. The smaller path – which Project Manager John Dalton promises "meets the spirit of the original community path" – drew the most ire from residents at a community meeting in December.

Earlier this year, three design-build firms were shortlisted for the Green Line contract. One is expected to be chosen by the fall, according to a Globe report.

Patch File Photo