MBTA details stations, facilities needing significant repairs

An inventory of the condition of Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority facilities has found that many stations, garages, and parking lots are in a state of disrepair.

A preliminary review from last year, prepared in advance of filings required by the Federal Transit Agency this year, found that nearly 60 percent of 378 stations and parking facilities scored 2 or less out of a possible 5, meaning they need significant repairs. Seventy-eight of those properties had a rating of 1.

Just last month crews were forced to close the Alewife garage after concrete fell on several cars. There are reports of elevators at some stations that have been out of service for months. And at the rail station in Winchester, plywood patches on ramps and exposed rebar are visible.

The Boston Globe reports the MBTA's preliminary list shows nearly 60 percent of stations and garages need major repairs.

The Winchester station was built in the 1950s and has low-level asphalt platforms that commuters get to by four concrete ramps. But as time has passed, the concrete has worn and plywood was added as a patch. In May, the Fiscal and Management Control Board gave the MBTA two directives: perform immediate repairs and do a full redesign of the station. Some of the proposed improvements include new elevators, canopies for inbound and outbound platforms and better lighting. The project is expected to be funded through the capital investment program once plans are approved.

At Aquarium station, a new elevator is expected to open at the end of September, after the current one has been broken for months.

And at Alewife, repairs to the garage have been ongoing since August, including some closures so repairs can be made.

A full report on MBTA conditions is due at the end of October and must be submitted to the Federal Transit Administration.

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The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

Cox Media Group