Central Square Station Accessibility Improvements
As part of our System-Wide Accessibility Improvements, we’re upgrading and building new accessible elevators and escalators at Central Square station in Cambridge.
- Design contract awarded: March 2019
- Anticipated construction start: Spring 2024
- Anticipated project completion: Mid-2026
- Construction budget: $35 million
- Status: 100% Design
Building a Better T
As part of our $9.6 billion, 5-year capital investment plan, we're renovating stations, modernizing fare collection systems, upgrading services for our buses, subways, and ferries, and improving the accessibility of the entire system.
Why We’re Doing This Work
Central Square is one of Cambridge’s busiest subway stations and has two underground platform levels. We’re updating Central Square station to meet current accessibility requirements. This project will provide extra elevators to ensure access to the station when one is out of service. Other improvements include escalator and safety upgrades.
October 2023 Design Update
This design update includes:
- A project overview
- Current station conditions
- Proposed station improvements
- Expected construction impacts
- Next steps for the project
Project Features
- Adding two new elevators: one on the inbound platform and one on the outbound platform
- Replacing the existing elevator on the outbound platform
- Building an accessible fire- and smoke-proof area of refuge on each platform for riders to wait safely for emergency rescue and evacuation
- Upgrading the public restroom
- Updating the existing inbound escalator
- Replacing interior lighting
- Improving power and communication systems, wayfinding signage, and fare collection
- Cleaning and painting throughout the station
Rider Benefits
- Easier access to station and Red Line platforms
- More reliable elevator and escalator service
- Multiple accessible station entrances
- Improved rider experience and safety due to station modernization
Contact Information
For all questions and comments related to Central Square station accessibility improvements, please contact the project team at CentralSquare@MBTA.com.
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Accessibility on the MBTA
Building a Better T
As part of our $9.6 billion, 5-year capital investment plan, we're renovating stations, modernizing fare collection systems, upgrading services for our buses, subways, and ferries, and improving the accessibility of the entire system.