ROCKPORT — The long-planned overhaul of Rockport's train station is another step closer to reality, Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority officials announced yesterday.
The MBTA board of directors awarded a $1.2 million contract to Nitsch Engineering to complete the final design of the Rockport Commuter Rail Station and layover facility. When the design is completed — slated for winter 2009 — the MBTA board will advertise a separate contract for the construction.
The most recent estimate put the cost of the project at $9.3 million, to be covered by federal, state and MBTA funding.
MBTA officials worked closely with Rockport's MBTA Station Planning Advisory Board to identify the preferred location, layover facility, and overall scope of work. The agreed-upon proposal, termed Alternative A-1b, calls for the layover facility to remain at its current location off Railroad Avenue, for the construction of a noise-reducing shed — termed a "hush hut" — and for Poole's Lane to remain open to two-way traffic.
Because the station is at the end of the line from Boston, trains remain at the station overnight. For years, neighbors have complained about the noise from the engines, which must be started several hours before each train departs each morning.
"As a daily rider of the T, I have seen how a new and improved station positively benefits the community," said state Rep. Anthony Verga, D-Gloucester. "The strong and successful partnership shown by the state, Rockport and the MBTA is what made this funding possible."
A state bond secured by state Sen. Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, and supported by Verga, combined with federal money secured by Congressman John Tierney, D-Salem, amounts to $6 million of the project's funding.
"Funding for the final design signifies that our team efforts are paying off," said Tarr. "The project is moving forward and Rockport is going to get the new train station residents and visitors deserve."
Tarr recently invited Town Administrator Michael Racicot, Selectman Armand Aparo, Verga and MBTA officials to a meeting at the Statehouse to discuss design plans.
At the meeting, Tarr said Racicot asked MBTA officials to consider providing space at the terminal end of the track behind Dunkin' Donuts in order to install a walking path to Whistlestop Mall. Tarr said the MBTA agreed to explore the possibility.
However, Tarr said Racicot made it clear to the MBTA that if the final design could not accommodate a path, it would not threaten the project.
The new design calls for expanded parking to accommodate 150 vehicles, automated fare collection equipment, landscaping and a ramp entrance to Evans Field, closed circuit cameras, emergency telephones and fire alarms, and several other improvements.
Officials anticipate construction starting in 2009, barring any major setbacks.
Attempts to contact Racicot were unsuccessful as of press time yesterday.
The Rockport train station is at the end of the Rockport line, approximately 35 miles north of Boston. Each weekday, 7,300 customers travel on the Rockport line, with 474 of them boarding at the Rockport station. Rockport service includes 26 weekday commuter trains and 14 weekend trains. Approximately 88 parking spaces are available for commuters.
"We make sound investments through the support and feedback from the people we serve," said MBTA General Manager, Daniel Grabauskas. "I thank the town of Rockport for your time and effort throughout the process, and look forward to our continued relationship through the next phase."
"This project represents the best in state and local cooperation to better serve commuter needs," said state Transportation Secretary Bernard Cohen. "An upgraded facility and added parking will enhance convenience and increase ridership."
Jonathan L'Ecuyer can be reached at jlecuyer@gloucestertimes.com.
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Alternative A-1b
Station and layover configuration of four parallel tracks at the site of the existing station. This alternative keeps Poole's Lane open to traffic by reducing the length of the boarding platform to accommodate seven-car trains. Train noise mitigation measures will be established via the construction of a shelter to house the locomotives. Expanded parking for 150 paved parking spaces will be provided that incorporate a landscaped, accessible entrance to Evans Field.
Source: Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
Final design highlights
Full level boarding platform with tactile edge and accessible ramps at both ends
Relocation of freight office to contain crew facilities
New station shelter
Automated fare collection infrastructure
Closed circuit cameras, emergency telephones, fire alarms
LED variable message sign
Improved site drainage
Landscaping and grade ramp entrance to the adjacent public recreation fields
Expand parking for 150 vehicles
Layover facility including four storage tracks, and a noise mitigation train shed
Source: Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
