MBTA officials announced a new multi-million dollar federal grant to replace a bridge in North Station at an event to launch a new safety initiative Monday morning.
“I’m very pleased to announce today that the USDOT awarded the MBTA a $472 million grant to replace our North Station Draw One bridge,” said MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “It’s a movable bridge just outside this station, just to the north. It carries all of our train service to the north.”
The grant, which comes through the National Infrastructure Project Assistance program, is the largest federal award the MBTA has ever won, according to the department. It will fund a bridge replacement that will allow “more train capacity, faster and more reliable rides, and increased safety on MBTA commuter rail and Amtrak trains,” the state said.
The Draw One Bridge, also known as the Charles River Bridge, dates back to the 1930s and allows trains to cross the Charles River, connecting Boston and Cambridge. It serves the Haverhill, Lowell, Newburyport/Rockport, and Fitchburg Commuter Rail lines, along with Amtrak lines.
Eng said the project will allow the T to “replace (the bridge), and at the same time, manage train traffic so people can still get to their destinations.”
In addition to replacing the bridge, the state said, the funds will replace the control tower, improve stations, extend the bridge platform and more. It will also address climate and economic goals, officials noted, supporting 14,500 jobs, bringing the bridge above projected sea-level rise and lowering emissions.
“This funding will help build greater connectivity for rail operations, create a better travel experience for users, and provide key upgrades that will benefit residents and visitors alike,” said Transportation Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt.
The MBTA and state officials also heralded a new “See Tracks, Think Train” safety initiative week at the event Monday.
“MBTA Safety is pleased to continue to work with Operation Lifesaver and play an integral role in ‘See Tracks, Think Train’ campaign to help underscore, communicate and spread the word regarding the importance of train track and railroad crossing safety,” said MBTA Chief Safety Officer Tim Lesniak.
Lesniak and others noted ongoing efforts to keep up with safety issues like signage, vegetation growth, fencing and lighting. Transit officials encouraged pedestrians and drivers to be cognizant and careful around crossings and for community partners to reach out to the MBTA about rail safety education.
“Let us recommit ourselves by creating a safer MBTA system for everyone,” said Eng. “By following safety guidelines and staying alert, we can prevent accidents, protect lives and get everyone safely to their destinations.”
