Massachusetts – Reconstruction of the Natick Center is expected to begin early next year on the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) commuter rail station. The $40 million project will go out to bid this month, and a contractor will be selected after a 90-day period.
State and federal money will fund the reconstruction, which is part of the state’s $18.3 billion plan to fund numerous transportation initiatives. The project includes a full update of the station with construction lasting for an estimated 30 months. Commuters will still be able to board the train during that time.Upgrades include elevators, ramps, two sets of stairs on each platform, improved lighting, and high-level platforms to accommodate wheelchair access. Tactile paving will be installed along the edge of the platform to assist commuters with vision impairments.
The existing pedestrian bridge will be replaced with a partially covered bridge. Tracks will also be realigned to accommodate a future express track currently in planning.