MBTA breaks ground on Winchester Center station work

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority officials joined state and local leaders yesterday to break ground on the $50 million Winchester Center station renovation project.

Located on the Lowell commuter-rail line, the station will undergo structural safety repairs and improvements to boost safety, accessibility and capacity, MBTA officials said in a press release. The station has been closed since January 2021 because of deteriorated structure concerns.

Once construction is complete, the station will feature new high-level and accessible platforms, reconstructed access ramps and new elevators. The canopies, signage, railings and lighting will also be upgraded.

"Allowing for important safety upgrades, increased station capacity and improved accessibility for people of all abilities, renovating Winchester Center station is an important investment in our commuter-rail infrastructure, with many upgrades to come for riders,” said MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak.

The project is slated for completion by spring 2024, with the station expected to open soon afterward. Winchester Center has not undergone any major updates since the 1950s.