Project Overview
Effective August 2015, BXP assumed property management responsibilities for the concourse level of Back Bay Station as part of a multifaceted Ground and Air Rights Lease executed between BXP, MassDOT, and the MBTA. All parties recognized the need to improve the customer experience at Boston’s third largest station and the western gateway to the City. As part of that agreement, BXP is working in partnership with the MBTA on an extensive renovation to Back Bay Station.
Currently, the station is in need of architectural upgrades, and the space can be difficult for customers to navigate. BXP has managed the design and approval process for the renovation project, in collaboration with the City of Boston, Boston Planning and Development Agency, community and neighborhood groups, MassDOT and the MBTA.
The project will restore the station’s architecture to its original condition and improve the pedestrian flow of the station. In an earlier stage of the project, BXP completed the renovation of the public bathrooms at the station.
This public-private partnership will revitalize Back Bay as a major civic train station with a new generation of active retail uses. Improvements will create a first-class transit hub.
Rendering of the final concourse area from Dartmouth Street entrance.
enhanced customer experience and access
Increased pedestrian flow and better accommodation for passengers waiting for trains
New lighting and temperature controls to improve and modernize the station’s interior and sense of comfort
Improvements to signage and wayfinding
Relocation of Orange Line fare gates and ticketing services to the central atrium of the station to improve visibility and access for riders
new retail spaces
New retail opportunities for MBTA riders and the community
Activation of the main hall and its perimeter through the addition of new spaces