The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is advancing with the significant rehabilitation of a crucial component of the state’s rail infrastructure, despite rising concerns over federal funding stability for the project.
On Thursday, the MBTA’s board of directors approved a $62 million contract with the design consultancy firm HDR Inc. to oversee the reconstruction of North Station Draw One, a nearly century-old bridge spanning the Charles River.
This bridge connects North Station to the northern portions of the Commuter Rail and Amtrak’s Downeaster line, making it an essential part of the rail network.
The complete overhaul of Draw One is estimated to cost around $1.2 billion and includes upgrading the existing drawbridges to three lift span bridges, replacing a nearby signal tower, and reconstructing certain track segments along with other enhancements.
If the project progresses according to schedule, MBTA officials anticipate completion by fall 2032; however, a builder has yet to be selected.
Last year, the United States Department of Transportation provided the MBTA with over $472 million to support this ambitious project.
State legislators and officials hailed this federal grant as a significant milestone in efforts to modernize Massachusetts’ rail infrastructure, as about 4.2 million train passengers utilized the bridge to enter North Station in 2023, according to MBTA data.
Despite these positive developments, concerns were voiced by board members regarding the potential volatility of federal funding.
Member Chanda Smart highlighted apprehensions stemming from the Trump administration’s previous moves to freeze and cut funds that did not align with its priorities.
The recent withdrawal of $327 million for the Allston Multimodal Project, a $2 billion initiative aimed at realigning a section of the Massachusetts Turnpike, raised further concerns among MBTA officials.
During the board meeting, Smart questioned the certainty of receiving the expected federal funding.
In response to these concerns, MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng expressed confidence in the project’s funding prospects.
He disclosed ongoing communication with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), affirming that this reconstruction project holds high importance and has received substantial support from federal officials.
Eng noted that $283 million of the awarded $472 million, which had been pledged for the project, were allocated this fiscal year, and an additional $189 million is expected to arrive in the fiscal year starting this October.
When board member Mary Skelton Roberts probed about the security of the funds, considering the situation with the Allston project, Eng maintained optimism.
Eng reassured that he sees no indication of risk regarding the remaining federal funds and emphasized the project’s significance in discussions with FTA leadership.
The MBTA is closely monitoring the funding situation and remains committed to the timely execution of this vital infrastructure project.
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