Light-flooded, clean spaces open up to new train tracks in renderings that show what the state transportation department has in mind for an updated South Station transportation hub in Boston.
| To see more renderings of South Station, view Banker & Tradesman’s slideshow here. |
Gov. Deval Patrick’s administration is in the midst of a $43 million planning study to determine how best to expand and further develop the 114-year-old train and bus station.
The new images were released on the heels of the announcement that a CVS, Tavern in the Square, Starbucks and Barbara’s Bestsellers will open in the transit center.
One rendering shows a bright white building with green roofs where a vacuum-like opening would ostensibly funnel commuters into the property along Fort Point Channel. Another image shows a transformed station, with a glass ceiling above a new display featuring a clock displaying military time.
While the renderings portray a vastly different South Station than commuters encounter today, a transportation department spokesperson emphasized the images are concepts, and "not firm designs" for the station expansion. "Careful attention" will be paid to ensuring the state’s plan complies with the historic property, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, according to Michael Verseckes, a public affairs representative for the state Department of Transportation (MassDOT).
Here’s how the agency’s blog describes the goals of expanding the station: "MassDOT … is now exploring design concepts for an expanded South Station that include more light; more open space inside the station; better connections to surrounding neighborhoods; better services and facilities for passengers; better use of technology for passenger information; and waiting areas that are safe, comfortable and easy to find. Over time, South Station will become more than a rail station: it will feature a great civic space, public venues, shopping, restaurants and other amenities."
It continues: "We envision a new kind of landmark, one that serves several modes of travel while also offering a variety of experiences. Stopping by after a walk along the harbor, meeting friends for dinner or shopping in a new retail arcade – these activities will all be possible at the new South Station."
