Reconstruction
In 2005, the MBTA awarded a $35.2 million contract for the complete reconstruction of the 75-year-old Ashmont station. The station was razed by September 2007 and the station was completely rebuilt. Trolley service was interrupted for 18 months, but was restored in December 2007. The reconstruction was completed in 2009, while architectural work lasted until the summer of 2011. Highlights of the project included:
- New platforms and an elevated viaduct for the Ashmont-Mattapan High Speed Line
- Two new lobbies with access at the station
- An elevated busway that is level with the new lobbies
- Public access over the subway tunnel to Peabody Square
- Three new elevators and two new escalators
- CCTV security cameras and significantly enhanced lighting
- Charlie Card automated fare vending machines and fare gates
The station construction included of a first-of-its-kind transit oriented development (TOD) on the station site. The 116 units of mixed income housing represent the state, city, MBTA, community and a private developer's combined effort to provide housing adjacent to rapid transit, thereby reducing automobile usage.
In September 2011, a "HOLD" sign was installed on the trolley platform to allow an easier connection for those transferring from the Red Line.
Read more about this topic: Ashmont (MBTA Station)