Renovations to Back Bay station are now underway: Here's what to know

"After a seven-month pre-construction phase, work crews will begin reconstructing the center and east side of the station's interior, along with the Clarendon Street side of the exterior, according to the MBTA. This phase is expected to last until late June, when crews will move on to reconstructing the west side of the station and the Dartmouth Street exterior. The project's MBTA page has cited the station's cramped layout and outdated electrical systems as the primary reasons for the renovations."

"Highlights of the proposed renovations include an additional six fare gates, a 52 percent increase in seating space, and a 69 percent increase in dedicated waiting space, according to a 2023 project presentation. Other expected expansions include a 49 percent increase in bike parking space, a 287 percent increase in heated and cooled spaces, and a 209 percent increase in retail spaces."

"During this first construction phase, the Clarendon Street entrance will remain closed, and scaffolding will be set up along the Orange Line platform, according to the project's website. Elevator access will still be available, and a new bike cage, located outside the Clarendon Street entrance, is expected to open by the week of Feb. 9. The MBTA is undergoing the project in collaboration with the City of Boston and BXP, a publicly traded developer."

Back Bay Station will receive a complete interior revamp through phased construction. After a seven-month pre-construction phase, crews will reconstruct the center and east interior and the Clarendon Street exterior during the first phase, which is expected to last until late June. The MBTA cites cramped layout and outdated electrical systems as primary reasons and plans new lighting, audio equipment, improved pedestrian flow, signage, new Orange Line fare gates, and expanded waiting areas and retail opportunities. Proposed improvements include additional fare gates, major increases in seating, waiting areas, bike parking, heated/cooled space, and retail space. The Clarendon Street entrance will close during phase one, elevator access will remain, and a new bike cage is expected to open the week of Feb. 9. The MBTA is collaborating with the City of Boston and developer BXP, and the second and final phase is expected to be completed in April 2027.

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