"Expanding passenger rail is directly connected to economic recovery, and the revitalization of Union Station is a powerful step in revitalizing downtown Springfield," said Governor Patrick. "I am thrilled today to be able to announce an additional $4 million through our transportation bond bill to see this restoration project through completion, and I thank our local and federal partners for their dedication to this important project."
“The $4 million in state funding announced today combined with additional federal funding helps to jumpstart the redevelopment of Union Station in Springfield,” said Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray. “Transportation is the enabling network of our economy, and we will continue to support the development of this transportation hub to boost job creation and economic growth in Springfield and across the region.”
In July Lieutenant Governor Murray joined U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and Congressman Richard Neal in July to announce $17.6 million in federal funding tp implement Phase I of this redevelopment project.
A revitalized Union Station is a key component in Knowledge Corridor passenger rail improvements including the realignment of the north-south Vermonter service, along with future passenger service from Montreal, and proposed service from Boston to Springfield.
The $4 million award with funds from the 2012 Transportation Bond Bill completes the $48.7 million necessary to begin the first phase of the $78 million project. Phase I construction will restore the Terminal Building and its central concourse, demolish the former Baggage Building, and construct a 24-bay bus terminal covered by a 146-space parking garage. In addition, the passenger tunnel will be restored and reopened providing stair and elevator access to the train boarding platforms and convenient access for pedestrians to the downtown.
The terminal concourse will include Amtrak, Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA), and Peter Pan bus ticketing and waiting areas along with transit-related retail space. Completion is expected in 2015.
The second phase of the project will ultimately include office space, a child care center, and additional garage parking and retail and commercial space. When completed, Union Station will be a state-of-the-art, LEED-certified intermodal transportation center for local, regional, and inter-city bus, Amtrak and commuter rail.
Thank you! After being involved in 8.5 years of planning, we are eager for construction to begin!
Posted by: Ken Krause | November 30, 2012 at 04:00 PM
What is the hold-up on groundbreaking for the Green Line Extension?
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A GLX groundbreaking will be scheduled and held soon and will be announced in advance, thank you.
Posted by: Ken Krause | November 26, 2012 at 08:08 PM
Three cheers!
Posted by: Michael Monroe | November 26, 2012 at 04:47 PM