Skip to main content <#maincontent>
We will keep fighting for all libraries - stand with us!
Internet Archive logo A line drawing of the Internet Archive
headquarters building façade.
Search icon An illustration of a magnifying glass.
Search icon An illustration of a magnifying glass.
Upload icon An illustration of a horizontal line over an up pointing
arrow. Upload
User icon An illustration of a person's head and chest. Sign up
| Log in
Web icon An illustration of a computer application window
Wayback Machine
Texts icon An illustration of an open book.
Books
Video icon An illustration of two cells of a film strip.
Video
Audio icon An illustration of an audio speaker.
Audio
Software icon An illustration of a 3.5" floppy disk.
Software
Images icon An illustration of two photographs.
Images
Donate icon An illustration of a heart shape
Donate
Ellipses icon An illustration of text ellipses.
More
Hamburger icon An icon used to represent a menu that can be toggled by
interacting with this icon.
Internet Archive Audio
Live Music Archive Librivox Free
Audio
Featured
* All Audio
* This Just In
* Grateful Dead
* Netlabels
* Old Time Radio
* 78 RPMs and Cylinder Recordings
Top
* Audio Books & Poetry
* Computers, Technology and Science
* Music, Arts & Culture
* News & Public Affairs
* Spirituality & Religion
* Podcasts
* Radio News Archive
Images
Metropolitan Museum
Cleveland
Museum of Art
Featured
* All Images
* This Just In
* Flickr Commons
* Occupy Wall Street Flickr
* Cover Art
* USGS Maps
Top
* NASA Images
* Solar System Collection
* Ames Research Center
Software
Internet Arcade Console
Living Room
Featured
* All Software
* This Just In
* Old School Emulation
* MS-DOS Games
* Historical Software
* Classic PC Games
* Software Library
Top
* Kodi Archive and Support File
* Vintage Software
* APK
* MS-DOS
* CD-ROM Software
* CD-ROM Software Library
* Software Sites
* Tucows Software Library
* Shareware CD-ROMs
* Software Capsules Compilation
* CD-ROM Images
* ZX Spectrum
* DOOM Level CD
Books
Books to Borrow Open Library
Featured
* All Books
* All Texts
* This Just In
* Smithsonian Libraries
* FEDLINK (US)
* Genealogy
* Lincoln Collection
Top
* American Libraries
* Canadian Libraries
* Universal Library
* Project Gutenberg
* Children's Library
* Biodiversity Heritage Library
* Books by Language
* Additional Collections
Video
TV News Understanding 9/11
Featured
* All Video
* This Just In
* Prelinger Archives
* Democracy Now!
* Occupy Wall Street
* TV NSA Clip Library
Top
* Animation & Cartoons
* Arts & Music
* Computers & Technology
* Cultural & Academic Films
* Ephemeral Films
* Movies
* News & Public Affairs
* Spirituality & Religion
* Sports Videos
* Television
* Videogame Videos
* Vlogs
* Youth Media
Search the history of over 835 billion web pages
on the Internet.
Search the Wayback Machine
Search icon An illustration of a magnifying glass.
Mobile Apps
* Wayback Machine (iOS)
* Wayback Machine (Android)
Browser Extensions
* Chrome
* Firefox
* Safari
* Edge
Archive-It Subscription
* Explore the Collections
* Learn More
* Build Collections
Save Page Now
Capture a web page as it appears now for use as a trusted citation in
the future.
Please enter a valid web address
* About
* Blog
* Projects
* Help
* Donate
* Contact
* Jobs
* Volunteer
* People
* Sign up for free
* Log in
Search metadata
Search text contents
Search TV news captions
Search radio transcripts
Search archived web sites
Advanced Search
* About
* Blog
* Projects
* Help
* Donate Donate icon An illustration of a heart shape
* Contact
* Jobs
* Volunteer
* People
Full text of "Red Blue Connector Project - Notice of Project Change
"
See other formats
Notice of Project Change EEA # 14101
October 2023
bocce Sib sched dcaritiandas inawsacaawel
(T) Massachusetts Bay =| Blue
Transportation Authority MA CONNECTOR
Maura Healey, Governor
Kimberley Driscoll, Lieutenant Governor Mild $$
Monica Tibbits-Nutt, Acting Secretary & CEO
Phillip Eng, General Manager & CEO Massachusetts Department of Transportation
October 2, 2023
Ref: EEA #14101
The Honorable Rebecca Tepper, Secretary
Tori Kim, Director of the MEPA Office
Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900
Boston, Massachusetts 02114
Re: Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
Red Blue Connector Project - Notice of Project Change
Boston, Massachusetts
Dear Secretary Tepper and Director Kim:
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (“MBTA") is pleased to submit the enclosed Notice of Project
Change ("NPC") for the Red Blue Connector Project (“the Project”) located in Downtown Boston. The most recently
reviewed build condition was presented in the Draft Environmental Impact report ("DEIR"), submitted to MEPA by
MassDOT/MBTA in May 2010. Since the 2010 DEIR, the MBTA has made progress on updating existing conditions,
advancing stakeholder coordination, advancing conceptual design of alternatives, and identifying a more efficient
construction method.
The Project would provide improved mobility and access for residents of East Boston, Revere, Winthrop, and
Chelsea by extending Blue Line service past its current terminus at Bowdoin Station to a new below-grade station at
the existing Red Line Charles/MGH Station. The Blue Line largely services Environmental Justice ("EJ") populations,
households with lower incomes, and transit dependent communities. Extending Blue Line service is expected to
increase transit ridership, reduce congestion in downtown transfer stations, and improve regional mobility and
connectivity.
This NPC is a result of a lapse in time and design refinements resulting from additional studies since the 2010 DEIR
filing. The Project meets or exceeds MEPA review thresholds at 301 CMR 11.03(6)(a)(5) and 301 CMR 11.03(10), and
the Project is within a 1-mile designated geographic area of EJ populations.’ A Supplemental Draft Environmental
Impact Report (SDEIR) is requested to further analyze impacts between a No Build and the Build Alternative as well
as document the anticipated Project benefits.
The MBTA anticipates a 20-day public comment period for the NPC will begin on October 11, 2023, the publication
date of the next Environmental Monitor, and will end on October 31, 2023. The distribution list included as
Attachment 4 lists parties receiving an electronic or printed notice of availability with a link to the full document
posted on MBTA’s website at: https://www.mbta.com/projects/red-blue-connector
1 Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, 301 CMR 11.00 MEPA Regulations
Maura Healey, Governor
Kimberley Driscoll, Lieutenant Governor Md § S
Gina Fiandaca, Secretary & CEO
Phillip Eng, General Manager & CEO Massachusetts Department of Transportation
The MBTA is voluntarily offering two public meetings on the Project and the NPC, at 6:00 PM on Monday,
October 16, 2023 at the Paul S. Russell, MD Museum at MGH and 6:00 PM on Thursday, October 19, 2023 at the
East Boston Branch of the Boston Public Library, to receive comments on the Project and for MEPA’s and the Federal
Transit Administration's (FTA‘s) use in determining the scope for a state SDEIR and federal NEPA review document.
Details of the meeting will be posted on MBTA‘s website at https://www.mbta.com/projects/red-blue-connector.
Copies of the NPC may be obtained by calling 617-549-4357 or emailing tpaganelli@mbta.com during the public
comment period.
We look forward to your review of this document and to consultation with the MEPA Office and other reviewers.
Please feel free to contact me at tpaganelli@mbta.com if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Tess Paganelli
Manager of Environmental Construction
Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
MBTA Red Blue Connector Project Notice of Project Change
Notice of Project Change Form
Attachment 1: Project Change Description and Alternatives
Analysis Attachment 2: Secretary's Certificate
e May 2010 Draft Environmental Impact Report
Attachment 3: Figures
e Figure 1: USGS Project Boundary and Location
e Figure 2a & 2b: Previously Reviewed Build Condition
e Figure 3: Currently Proposed Build Condition
Attachment 4: Circulation List
Attachment 5: Public Outreach
e = Public Involvement Plan
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs ™% MEPA Office
Notice of Project Change
The information requested on this form must be completed to begin MEPA Review of a
NPC in accordance with the provisions of the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act
and its implementing regulations (see 301 CMR 11.10(1)).
EEA # 14101
Project Name: MBTA Red Blue Connector
Street Address: 1-327 Cambridge Street
Municipality: Boston Watershed: Charles River Watershed
Universal Transverse Mercator Coordinates; Latitude: (See Attachment 3 for location)
(See Attachment 3 for location) Longitude:
Estimated commencement date: 2026 Estimated completion date: 2031
Project Type: Transit Status of project design: 10 xcomplete
Proponent: Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)
Street Address: 10 Park Plaza
Municipality: Boston State: MA Zip Code: 02116
Name of Contact Person: Tess Paganelli
Firm/Agency: MBTA Street Address: 10 Park Plaza
Municipality: State: MA Code: 02116
Phone: 617-549-4357 E-mail: tpaganelli@mbta.com
With this Notice of Project Change, are you requesting:
a Single EIR? (see 301 CMR 11.06(8)) [ ]Yes [x]No
a Special Review Procedure? (see 301cmR 11.09) [| ]Yes [x]JNo
a Waiver of mandatory EIR? (see 301 CMR 11.11) L]Yes [x|No
a Phase | Waiver? (see 301 CMR 11.11) [ ]Yes [x]No
Which MEPA review threshold(s) does the revised project meet or exceed (see 301 CMR 11.03)? Identify
any new or modified review threshold(s) associated with the project change.
- 301 CMR 11.03(6)(a)(5) — Construction of a new rail or rapid transit line along a new,
unused, or abandoned right-of-way for transportation of passengers or freight.
- 301 CMR 11.03(10) — Historical and Archaeological Resources
- 301 CMR 11.01(2)(b)(4) — Any Project that is located within a Designated Geographic
Area around one or more Environmental Justice Population shall comply with
301 CMR 11.05(4) and shall include in the Notice of Project Change a description of
measures taken to enhance public involvement opportunities by the identified EJ
Populations.*
*Advance notification for the Project was provided on August 14, 2023 in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole,
Chinese, Portuguese, and Nepali
Which Agency Permits does the revised project require?
Section 61 Findings, MDCR Access Permits, MWRA NPDES permit No. MA0103284, NPDES
permit No. MA0101192, BCC Order of Conditions, Drainage Discharge Permit, Sewer Use
Discharge Permit, City of Boston Building Permits
Effective January 6, 2023
Identify any financial assistance or land transfer from an Agency of the Commonwealth for the
revised project, including the Agency name and the amount of funding or land area in acres:
The Project currently has $30 million in state funding for planning, initial design, and
environmental review as identified in the MBTA’s FY24-28 Capital Investment Plan (CIP).
Funding for final design and construction, while not yet identified, could be provided by a
combination of Commonwealth transportation funds, possible federal funds or other local
sources. All land to be used by the project is public right-of-way owned by the City of Boston
or the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), some of which may be subject to
Article 97. The need for additional land will be identified in the future supplemental DEIR; no
permanent land transfers are currently anticipated from agencies of the Commonwealth.
PROJECT INFORMATION
In 25 words or less, what is the project change? Since the 2010 DEIR, the Project has
updated concept designs for station, tunnel, and storage track alternatives, as well as a new
tunnel construction method.
See full project change description begi
Date of publication of availability of the ENF in the Environmental Monitor: (Date: November 15,
2007)
Was an EIR required? ixlYes L_JNo; if yes,
was a Draft EIR filed? [x]Yes (Date: April 7, 2010) [_]No
was a Final EIR filed? [_]Yes (Date: ) [XNo
was a Single EIR filed? [_]Yes (Date: ) [X|No
Have other NPCs been filed? [_]Yes (Date(s): ) KINo
If this is an NPC solely for lapse of time (see 301 CMR 11.10(2)) proceed directly to
ATTACHMENTS & SIGNATURES.
PERMITS / FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE / LAND TRANSFER
List or describe all new or modified Agency permits, financial assistance, or land transfers not
previously reviewed: include list of Agency Actions (e.g., Agency Project, Financial
Assistance, Land Transfer, List of Permits)
This Project could utilize FTA federal funds for future design and construction; therefore,
concurrent review through FTA’s National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
implementing regulations is required.
Are you requesting a determination that this project change is insignificant such that an EIR
should not be required (note that the Proponent may also seek an advisory ruling under
301 CMR 11.10(6))? A change in a Project is ordinarily insignificant if it results solely in
an increase in square footage, linear footage, height, depth or other relevant measures
of the physical dimensions of the Project of less than 10% over estimates previously
reviewed, provided the increase does not meet or exceed any review thresholds. A
change in a Project is also ordinarily insignificant if it results solely in an increase in
impacts of less than 25% of the level specified in any review threshold, provided that
cumulative impacts of the Project do not meet or exceed any review thresholds that
were not previously met or exceeded. (see 301 CMR 11.10(6))
[]Yes [X|No; if yes, provide an explanation of this request in the Project Change
Description below.
FOR PROJECTS SUBJECT TO AN EIR
If the project requires the submission of an EIR, are you requesting that a Scope in a previously
issued Certificate be rescinded?
[]Yes [X|No; if yes, provide an explanation of this request
If the project requires the submission of an EIR, are you requesting a change to a Scope ina
previously issued Certificate?
lYes___[_|No; if yes, provide an explanation of this request
MBTA request an updated Certificate for Supplemental DEIR due to the lapse in time,
continuation of design updates and change in construction method.
SUMMARY OF PROJECT CHANGE PARAMETERS AND IMPACTS
Summary of Project Size Previously Net Change Currently
& Environmental Impacts reviewed (since the Proposed
(in the 2010 2010 DEIR)
LAND
Square feet of bordering vegetated
wetlands alteration
Square feet of other wetland alteration rr ee ee eee
Acres of non-water dependent use of
tidelands or waterways
STRUCTURES
Gross square footage (above ground ~2,600 square +5,000 ~7,600
headhouses and vent shafts) feet square feet square feet
Number of housing units [a ae
Maximum height (in feet) (above ground
headhouses and vent shafts)
TRANSPORTATION
Vehicle trips per day? -1,400 auto TBD TBD
person-trips
Parking spaces" [WA | CdSTDCS
WATER/WASTEWATER
Galonsiday (GPD) of water use
GPD water withdrawal ee a ee ce
GPO wasovatrgentafonweaimend [0 [9 Jo
Length of water/sewer mains (in miles) TBD,
Relocations
along
Cambridge
Street and
North Grove
Street will
occur
It is assumed that all work will be conducted within areas that were previously altered.
? The additional Project area (0.8 acres) is currently impervious therefore no net increase impervious
surface.
3 “TBD” indicates that impacts will be determined at a later date when travel demand modeling is
completed.
4 The number of current on-street parking spaces will be identified during the development of the
Supplemental DEIR. No additional parking spaces are proposed. Spaces temporarily lost during
construction will be restored.
5GPD will represent water use from MBTA staff restrooms.
Does the project change involve any new or modified:
1. conversion of public parkland or other Article 97 public natural resources to any purpose
not in accordance with Article 97? [ ]Yes [x|No
2. release of any conservation restriction, preservation restriction, agricultural
preservation restriction, or watershed preservation restriction? []Yes [x|No
3. impacts on Rare Species? [JYes [XJNo
4. demolition of all or part of any structure, site or district listed in the State Register of
Historic Place or the inventory of Historic and Archaeological Assets of the Commonwealth?
[ ]Yes [X]No
5. impact upon an Area of Critical Environmental Concern? []Yes [X|No
If you answered ‘Yes’ to any of these 5 questions, explain below:
*As analyzed in the 2010 DEIR, the Project slightly extends into land protected by
Article 97. It is anticipated that the preferred alternative will not permanently
impact the recreational use of Charles River Reservation and Cardinal Cushing
Park. This will be confirmed in the Supplemental DEIR and NEPA review
documentation. A temporary occupancy work permit, issued by DCR, would be
required for work within the Charles River Reservation and Cardinal Cushing Park.
PROJECT CHANGE DESCRIPTION (attach additional pages as necessary). The project change
description should include:
(a) a brief description of the project as most recently reviewed,
(b) a description of material changes to the project as previously reviewed,
(c) if applicable, the significance of the proposed changes, with specific reference to the
factors listed 301 CMR 11.10(6), and
(d) measures that the project is taking to avoid Damage to the Environment or to minimize
and mitigate unavoidable environmental impacts. If the change involves modification of any prior
mitigation commitments or previously issued Section 61 Finding, include a description of any such
changes and a draft of the modified Section 61 Finding (or it will be required in Supplemental EIR).
The project change description should include a comprehensive description of the proposed
project change, including a description of any work or activities associated with the original project
that have occurred to date. At the discretion of the MEPA Office, an alternatives analysis for the
changed component(s) of the project may be required, including a summary of alternatives
considered and associated environmental impacts at a level of detail commensurate with the scope
and scale of the proposed change. In addition to the required attachments, the filing should include
supporting technical data (e.g., a Traffic Impact and Access Study, Stormwater Report, etc.) as
appropriate. It should include a full list of mitigation commitments that remain unchanged from the
previously reviewed project.
See Attachment 1 for the project change description, and alternatives analysis.
ATTACHMENTS & SIGNATURES
Attachments:
1. Secretary's most recent Certificate on this project
2. Plan showing most recent previously reviewed proposed build condition
3. Plan showing currently proposed build condition
4. Original U.S.G.S. map or good quality color copy (8-1/2 x 11 inches or larger) indicating the
project location and boundaries
5. List of all agencies and persons to whom the proponent circulated the NPC, in accordance with
301 CMR 11.10(7)
Signatures: ;
10/02/23 10/02/23
Date Signature of Responsible Officer Date Signature of person preparing
or Proponent NPC (if different from above)
Tess Paganelli Kristen Bergassi
Name (print or type) Name (print or type)
MBTA VHB
Firm/Agency Firm/Agency
10 Park Plaza 99 High Street
Street Street
Boston, MA 02116 Boston, MA 02110
Municipality/State/Zip Municipality/State/Zip
617-549-4357 617-607-2989
Phone Phone
MBTA Red Blue Connector Project Notice of Project Change
ATTACHMENT 1: Project Change
Description and Alternatives
Analysis
Gx Red Blue Project Change Description and
TAcoNNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
Introduction
The Red Blue Connector Project (the “Project’) is an initiative of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)
to improve the transit connection between the Red and Blue lines. Under the Project, the Blue Line would be extended
approximately 2,150 feet beyond its current terminus at Bowdoin Station, below Cambridge Street in Downtown Boston,
to the Charles/Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Station, where it would connect directly to the Red Line. Bowdoin
Station would be permanently closed, and Blue Line trains would travel directly from Government Center to
Charles/MGH Station. In addition to the direct Red Line connection, an entrance within the new MGH Clinical Building
between North Grove Street and Blossom Street is proposed to provide access to the MGH campus. Enhancing mobility
between these two lines would also improve access for residents of East Boston and the North Shore, as well as residents
of Cambridge and other communities northwest of Boston. This Project would also improve access to Massachusetts
Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) and other nearby medical facilities, and would improve system capacity, increase transit
ridership, and extend accessibility.
The Project was previously reviewed pursuant to the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and its
implementing regulations under the EEA number 14101 with an Expanded Environmental Notification Form submitted
on September 6, 2007, and a 2010 Draft Environmental Impact Report submitted on March 31, 2010." 2
The need for this Notice of Project Change (NPC) for the Red Blue Connector Project results from the lapse in time since
the prior environmental filing effort and further design refinements that resulted from additional studies and a new
construction method, as discussed in the 2021 Concept Design Report. ? The Red Blue Connector Project is no longer a
Central Artery/Tunnel project mitigation commitment under State Implementation Plan (SIP) requirements.
The following sections describe the Project changes, including the progression of alternatives development since the
2010 DEIR, also discussed in the updated 2021 Concept Design Report.
Purpose and Need
The purpose of the Red Blue Connector Project is to improve mobility and access to jobs and health care for residents
of East Boston, Revere, Winthrop, and Chelsea.
Goals and Objectives
Implementing the Red Blue Connector would likely:
> Improve mobility and regional access, especially for residents of East Boston and the North Shore, benefiting both
environmental justice and non-environmental justice populations;
> Increase transit ridership by eliminating the need to make an intermediate transfer on the Orange or Green lines;
>» Extend accessibility by replacing the inaccessible Bowdoin station with a fully accessible new Blue Line station at
Charles/MGH; and
> Improve system capacity by reducing congestion in downtown transfer stations.
'MBTA, Red Line/Blue Line Connector Expanded Environmental Notification Form, September 2007.
? MassDOT, Red Line/Blue Line Connector Project Draft Environmental Impact Report, March 2010.
3 MBTA, Red Blue Connector Concept Design Report, November 2021. Available here: https://www.mbta.com/projects/red-blue-connector
Gx Red Blue Project Change Description and
TA cONNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
Project Change Description
The Red Blue Connector continued work following the 2010 DEIR Certificate, including a 2018 Tunnel Constructability
Study and 2021 Concept Design Report. These efforts were largely focused on updating the following:
> Updating the tunneling method by re-evaluating feasibility, best practices and costs
» Updating potential construction impacts
>» Updating station configuration
» Updating tunnel ventilation requirements
> Updating ridership along the Red and Blue lines to reflect recent development patterns
» Coordination with adjacent proposed and ongoing development projects
Existing Conditions
The Project Area is defined as the Cambridge Street Corridor, located along Cambridge Street, between Charles Circle
and Sudbury Street.
Cambridge Street is a heavily traveled urban arterial and is wider than most arterials in Downtown Boston. The land use
at the eastern end of the Project, east of Staniford Street, primarily consists of state and federal government buildings.
West of Staniford Street on the north side of Cambridge Street, land use is primarily commercial and institutional,
including MGH and MEEI. On the south side of Cambridge Street, structures are older and smaller commercial buildings
with some residences. Located farther south is the largely Historic Beacon Hill residential neighborhood.
Public Transit
Public transit services within the Project Area include the MBTA Blue Line and MBTA Red Line rail rapid transit services.
The MBTA’s Red and Blue Lines are the only lines within the MBTA rail rapid transit network that do not have a direct
connection with one another. MBTA Route 354 travels along Sudbury Street and a portion of Cambridge Street within
the Project Area, however there are no bus stops within the Project Area.
Blue Line
The MBTA’s Blue Line operates over a 6-mile corridor within the agency's rail rapid transit network. The Blue Line has
twelve stations serving downtown Boston, East Boston, and Revere communities. The Blue Line largely serves
environmental justice populations, households with lower incomes, and transit dependent communities. Blue Line
service has maintained the strongest ridership recovery of all rapid transit lines since the start of COVID-19. Currently
the Blue Line operates between 5:12 AM to 12:53 AM on weekdays, with peak frequency every five minutes and off-peak
frequency every 11 minutes.* Bowdoin Station, located at the intersection of Cambridge Street and Bowdoin Street in
Downtown Boston, is the Blue Line’s western terminus. It is the only station on the Blue Line that is not accessible.
4 MBTA Rapid Transit Schedule, Effective July 2, 2023
Gx Red Blue Project Change Description and
TAcoNNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
The Blue Line currently operates six-car trainsets between Bowdoin and Wonderland terminal stations. Wonderland
Terminal features a two-platform station with three tail-tracks located east of the station platforms, used for reverse
equipment movements. Wonderland is operationally constrained by the motor person walk-time, with the operator
needing to exit the vehicle, walk the length of the train, and switch ends to reverse direction back to the inbound
platform.
The Bowdoin terminal allows for continuous same-direction travel via the Bowdoin Loop. While there are time-savings
benefits from not requiring operators to get out of their vehicles and switch ends as at Wonderland Terminal, the
constrained track geometry (75’ radius) and slow operating speeds (5 mph) significantly reduce the operational
throughput over this section of track. With all other stations along the Blue Line able to accommodate the full six-car
trainsets, the eastbound platform at Bowdoin Station is only able to accommodate four cars — with two doors that
remain closed during boarding. Bowdoin Station is also the only Blue Line station that is not accessible.
The Blue Line is powered by an overhead catenary system (OCS), extending from Wonderland to Airport Station, and a
third-rail traction power system extending from Airport to Bowdoin terminal. Trains switch modes during their dwell at
Airport Station depending on traveling direction.
Red Line
The MBTA’s Red Line is the system's busiest line, spanning 21 miles with 22 stations. The Red Line’s trunk portion runs
from Alewife to JFK/UMass with two branches extending to either Ashmont or Braintree. The two Red Line branches join
south of downtown Boston in the city’s Dorchester neighborhood. Currently, the Red Line operates between 5:00 AM
to 12:38 AM on weekdays with all-day frequency every nine minutes on the trunk portion.°
All Red Line trains on these lines serve stations between Alewife and JFK/UMass, including Charles/MGH Station and all
other stations in downtown Boston. Constructed in 1931, Charles/MGH Station was designed to accommodate the Red
Line elevated track, which was built in 1912.° Charles/MGH Station was renovated in 2007 to fully allow street level
access under the alignment and making the station accessible with elevators. The station renovation was a headhouse
project only and did not replace Red Line platforms or address the second means of egress associated with the National
Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 130 Standard.’ The new two-story station building replaced the elevated pedestrian
footbridges and three-story headhouse. The station currently consists of a street-level headhouse entrance and fare
collection lobby located in Charles Circle, as well as two semi-enclosed side platforms above the lobby area. Stairs,
upward escalators, and elevators allow patrons to access the platforms.
° MBTA Rapid Transit Schedule, Effective July 2, 2023
° MBTA, Draft Environmental Impact Report, 2010
’ National Fire Protection Association 130, Standard for Fixed Guideway Transit and Passenger Rail Systems
Gx) Red Blue Project Change Description and
TAcONNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
Roadway
The Cambridge Street corridor, running east from Charles Circle, is a dense urban sector of downtown Boston. There are
approximately 560 individual properties along the corridor that are commercial/retail and institutional, mixed-use, with
residential properties bordering the corridor. As evaluated in the 2010 DEIR, the Project area was defined and ten
intersections were selected along Cambridge Street for the existing traffic conditions evaluation. The role of Cambridge
Street as a major commuter route is demonstrated by the majority of the traffic traveling eastbound, towards
Government Center, during the morning peak hour and the majority of the traffic traveling westbound, away from
Government Center, during the evening peak hour. The majority of traffic on the Longfellow Bridge travels westbound,
into Cambridge, during the morning peak hour and eastbound, toward Boston, during the evening peak hour. The
difference in peak travel direction between the Longfellow Bridge and Cambridge Street may reflect the role of Storrow
Drive as a major commuter route for people traveling to and from the City of Cambridge. The Storrow Drive on-ramp
and Charles Street northbound have their highest traffic volume during the evening peak hour as commuters leave
Boston and Cambridge, while the Storrow Drive eastbound and westbound off-ramps have their highest volumes during
the morning peak hour as commuters enter the area.
Aerial of Cambridge Street Corridor
Source: NearMap 2023
Gx Red Blue Project Change Description and
TAcONNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
Basis for Design
Design Criteria
Design criteria for the Project is comprised of applicable and jurisdictional code requirements for the proposed facilities.
Among these include the Massachusetts State Building Code, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the NFPA
for fire protection, ventilation, and emergency egress. Additionally, all design is developed under the guidance of the
MBTA’s standards and guidelines, regulatory, professional, technical, and trade association standards.
Design criteria is typically set forth during the preliminary design phase, however some criteria have already been set
through previous concept design work. A Basis for Design Report will be developed during the 30% design phase.
Individual design reports for the various disciplines are developed and utilized to inform the Project's conceptual design
criteria. These individual reports include:
>» Design for the Environment Report
>» Stormwater and Groundwater Management Plans
> Preliminary Geotechnical Data Report
>» Tunnel Design Criteria Report
>» Track and Signal Design Criteria Reports
» Traction Power Load Flow Study
>» Station Design Criteria Report
>» Roadway Design Criteria Report
>» NFPA 130 Egress Analysis
Construction Methods
Three tunneling methodologies were discussed in the 2010 DEIR and Concept Design Report, namely Tunnel Boring
Machine (TBM), Sequential Excavation Method (SEM), and Cut and Cover (C&C). TBM advances horizontally from an
entrance point (access shaft) to the destination. SEM mining allows progressive construction of a tunnel opening by
excavating areas only as large as the soil can support prior to installing structural support and shotcrete. C&C
construction method involves installation of an earth support system along the outside limits of the tunnel (e.g., slurry
wall, secant pile wall, steel sheeting, soldier pile and lagging), and installation of lateral support structures as the tunnel
excavation advances. In 2018, the MBTA developed a Constructability Report that further evaluated and recommended
the entire tunnel be constructed using the C&C method. Subsequently, the methodologies were independently
reevaluated as part of the 2021 Concept Design Report and C&C construction was again proposed as the recommended
tunneling method for the entire Project. See Tier 3 Alternatives for more information on the evaluation of tunneling
methodology.
Ga Red Blue Project Change Description and
TAcONNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
Construction Phasing
The 2010 DEIR schedule, assuming a mix of the three tunneling methodologies, included a duration of work over
5.75 years and included the following phases:
> Phase 1: Initial Utility Relocation and Other Initial Activities
» Phase 2A: Northerly Tunnel Construction
> Phase 2B: Top-Down C&C East of Receiving Pit
» Phase 3A: Utility Relocation
> Phase 3B: Southerly Tunnel Construction
In the 2021 Concept Design Report, the anticipated construction duration was estimated to be 4.5 to 5 years. The
reduction in overall duration is attributable to utilizing the single tunnel methodology of C&C. In addition to a reduction
in overall construction duration, this methodology is similar to that used for the Central Artery/Tunnel project performed
by the major local contractors and is expected to yield a more competitive bid process with resulting reduction in overall
construction costs compared to other tunnel methodologies.
Refinements of Alternatives
The following sections describe the alternatives considered for each Project component and criteria set to evaluate these
alternatives. Tier 1 Alternatives describe the alternatives discussed in the 2010 Definitions of Alternatives Report. Tier 2
discusses alternatives in the 2010 Draft Environmental Impact Report. Finally, Tier 3 discusses the alternatives in the 2021
Concept Design Report.
Potential Blue Line Extension
Source: AECOM 2022
Gx Red Blue Project Change Description and
TAcoNNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
Tier 1 Alternatives and Evaluation
Evaluation Criteria
The 2010 Definitions of Alternatives Report evaluated an initial set of alternatives for general feasibility, constructability,
relative cost, transportation benefit, and environmental impact. Tier 1 Alternatives aimed to identify a preferred Blue
Line alignment and track configuration and were analyzed to understand the practicality of improving the existing
Bowdoin Station or eliminating/relocating Bowdoin Station. Each alternative was evaluated for advantages and
disadvantages in order to eliminate alternatives from consideration and select others to move on to the next phase.
Alternatives
The four major alignment segments considered were:
» Closure of Existing Bowdoin Station
> Blue Line Realignment with Elimination of Bowdoin Station
> Blue Line Realignment with Relocated Bowdoin Station
> Alignment and Track Configuration from Joy Street to Charles/MGH
The closure of the existing Bowdoin Station was evaluated as a potential alternative for the Red Blue Connector Project.
It was determined that the existing configuration of Bowdoin Station cannot be modified to meet current MBTA turning
radius and safety standards. This alternative has significant restrictions that impact the track alignment including, but
not limited to, issues regarding structural configuration, platform lengths, ADA compliance, and length of vertical curves.
This option has been eliminated due to operational challenges.
Blue Line track realignment with the elimination of Bowdoin Station was evaluated to identify the most appropriate track
and tunnel realignment between Government Center Station and Joy Street. This design analysis determined the
horizontal and vertical modifications required as well as construction type and potential surface impacts during
construction.
Relocated Bowdoin Station alternatives were developed to accommodate a new relocated track configuration and
station location. Factors contributing to evaluation of this alternative included potential ridership, financial impacts, and
community impacts.
Alternatives for alignment and track configuration from Joy Street to Charles/MGH Station were developed to identify
the necessary track and tunnel alignment that would permit an extension of the Blue Line from Joy Street to
Charles/MGH Station. The alternatives were evaluated against highest possible ridership and operations opportunities.
Design aspects such as the platform type, depth of excavation, construction type, and potential surface impacts during
construction were also considered.
Gx Red Blue Project Change Description and
TAcoNNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
Tier 2 Alternatives and Evaluation
Following the screening of the Tier 1 Alternatives, alternatives were identified as impractical and were eliminated from
future consideration. The purpose of the Tier 2 Alternatives was to further refine and evaluate a No Build and two Build
Alternatives to include in the 2010 DEIR.
Evaluation Criteria
The evaluation criteria for the Tier 2 Alternatives included service and operation issues, construction impact analysis,
community impact analysis, environmental issues, cost, and coordination considerations.
Alternatives
One No Build and two Build Alternatives were recommended for inclusion in the 2010 DEIR following the Tier 2
evaluation. Those alternatives are:
>» No Build
> Alternative 1: Blue Line Extension to Charles/MGH Station with the Elimination of Bowdoin Station
> Alternative 2: Blue Line Extension to Charles/MGH Station with Relocated Bowdoin Station
The No Build Alternative provided a baseline to compare against the Build Alternatives. The No Build Alternative
assumed that Blue Line operations will remain similar to existing operations. This alternative included funded capital
improvements included in the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization's (MPO) Long Range Transportation
Plan.
Alternative 1 extended the Blue Line from Bowdoin Station to Charles/MGH Station and closed the existing Bowdoin
Station. A new Blue Line platform constructed below the existing Charles/MGH Station would connect to the existing
Red Line platforms via stairways, escalators, and elevators allowing passengers to transfer between the two lines.
Alternative 2 proposed the extension of the
Blue Line to Charles/MGH with a relocated
Bowdoin platform while maintaining the
stations existing mezzanine and headhouse.
In this alternative, Bowdoin Station would be
able to accommodate six-car trains.
EMIGIVE 7 Blue Line Platform View
The construction methodology proposed in
Alternatives 1 and 2 was a combination of
C&C, mined tunnel using TBM, and SEM
methods. The tunnel would be _ partly
constructed using the C&C method while TBM
would be used to construct a mined tunnel for
the balance of the tunnel work. Open
excavations would also be required for vents Source: FMCB Red Blue Connector, 2021
and emergency egress points, as well as for
the TBM launch pit. SEM would be used for
the tail tracks.
Gx Red Blue Project Change Description and
TAcoNNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
Tier 3 Alternatives and Evaluation
Following the 2010 DEIR, an updated 2021 Concept Design Report was completed to develop and evaluate design and
construction concepts with a combination of original work and new solutions. Refinements developed in the Concept
Design Report built from “Tier 2, Alternative 1: Blue Line Extension to Charles/MGH” with the Elimination of Bowdoin
Station. The report discusses three new station alternatives, additional tunneling methodology, and two additional
storage track alternatives.
Evaluation Criteria
Station alternatives were evaluated against accessibility, code compliance, construction cost, and customer experience.
Tunnel construction method alternatives were evaluated against construction impacts, cost, and feasibility. Storage track
alternatives were evaluated against cost and operational feasibility.
Alternatives
Prior alternatives were revisited, and minor refinements were made to the terminals. Three station configurations were
developed in the 2021 Concept Design Report. Station Alternative 1 locates the Blue Line platform immediately east and
below the existing Charles/MGH headhouse, providing access via the existing headhouse at the west end of the platform
and via an entrance within the future MGH Clinical Building on the east side of the platform. Redundant elevators would
be provided and the path to elevators would be made visible from the platform. Station Alternative 2 places the Blue
Line platform in the same location as Station Alternative 1. An intermediate mezzanine would be constructed with
sidewalk entrances located to the north and south of the headhouse connecting to the mezzanine. Station Alternative
2 includes an entrance within the future MGH Clinical building and would move fare control from the existing at grade
headhouse to a below grade mezzanine. Red Line passengers would be affected by this change and emergency egress
would need to be evaluated. Station Alternative 3 locates the new Blue Line platform to the northwest of the existing
headhouse. An underground mezzanine and new sidewalk entrances would be constructed. This alternative would move
fare control from the existing at grade headhouse to a below grade mezzanine. Red Line passengers would be affected
by this change and emergency egress would need to be evaluated. Station Alternative 3 would not support an entrance
within the future MGH Clinical Building.
The three tunneling methodologies presented in the 2010 DEIR - Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), Sequential Excavation
Method (SEM), and Cut & Cover (C&C) - remain the same. The 2021 Concept Design Report evaluated six new tunneling
methodology combinations utilizing TBM, SEM, and C&C.
The new combinations and key attributes are described in the Alternatives table below:
Alternative Key Attributes
2010 Alternative* > This alternative uses a combination of all three methodologies.
> Benefits of TBM tunneling reducing surface disruption are offset by the need for C&C
construction.
v
C&C construction compliments the ability to provide emergency tunnel ventilation.
T1: SEM and C&C
v
T1 utilizes SEM for construction of the storage tracks, platform, and crossover area.
C&C would be utilized for the tunnel portion.
v
Benefits of SEM tunneling reducing surface disruption are offset by the need for C&C
construction
v
SEM construction limits the ability to provide an emergency tunnel ventilation system
Gx Red Blue Project Change Description and
TAcoNNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
v
SEM requires significant ground improvement
T1A: SEM and expanded | > T1A is similar to T1 with the exception that the station and crossover would be
C&C constructed using C&C.
Benefits of SEM tunneling reducing surface disruption are offset by the need for C&C
construction.
Vv
v
C&C construction compliments the ability to provide emergency tunnel ventilation.
T2: SEM, C&C, and TBM* | > This alternative would use TBM for the two storage tracks, SEM for the station and
crossover, and C&C for the eastern portion of the tunnel.
v
Benefits of TBM tunneling reducing surface disruption are offset by the need for C&C
construction along significant portions of the tunnel
> SEM construction limits the ability to provide an emergency tunnel ventilation system
v
SEM requires significant ground improvement
T2A: C&C and TBM* > Similar to T2 with the exception that the station and crossover area would utilize C&C.
> Benefits of TBM tunneling reducing surface disruption are offset by the need for C&C
construction along significant portions of the tunnel
» C&C construction compliments the ability to provide emergency tunnel ventilation
T3: C&C > The entire tunnel would be constructed by C&C.
Provides the shortest construction schedule and lowest cost
- Uw
Supports flexibility including the ability to provide emergency tunnel ventilation
> Allows for utility relocation to be performed in advance of work
>» Most common method with a proven track record of successful projects
*As discussed in the 2021 Concept Design Report, the distance of the tunnel does not support the use of TBM. Typically, TBM is used for tunnels that
are a minimum of one mile. Because of this conclusion, tunnel methodology alternatives that suggest the use of TBM will not be selected.
Three storage track alternatives were developed following the 2021 Concept Design Report. Storage Track Alternative 1
places storage tracks west of the new Blue Line station platform, extending the inbound and outbound tracks
approximately 300 feet west. Storage Track Alternative 1 would have tracks extend out as tail tracks and utilize the SEM
tunneling method. Storage Track Alternative 2 consists of storage tracks east of the new Blue Line station. Storage Track
Alternative 3 maintains and utilizes the existing Bowdoin loop for storage tracks. The Bowdoin loop will be sealed off at
the south end to hold two trains in-line. At this time, a storage track preferred alternative has not been confirmed.
Alternatives to Advance for Further Evaluation
The following section describes the No Build and Preferred Build Alternative for the Red Blue Connector following the
2010 DEIR and 2021 Concept Design Report.
No Build
Under the No Build Alternative, it is assumed Red and Blue Line operations would remain similar to today’s operations
and existing stations (Bowdoin and Charles/MGH) and tunnels would remain the same, with the exception of
infrastructure improvements proposed in Boston MPO's Long Range Transportation Plan. Refer to the Existing
Conditions section for more information on current Red and Blue Line operations.
Gx Red Blue Project Change Description and
TA cONNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
Preferred Build Alternative
Due to the current operational constraints of Bowdoin station, platform length and loop track configuration, the
Preferred Build Alternative for the Project extends the Blue Line from Bowdoin Station to Charles/MGH and eliminates
Bowdoin Station from operation. A new subsurface platform would be constructed at Charles/MGH to service the Blue
Line. A two-track tunnel would be constructed underneath Cambridge Street within the right-of-way. The preferred
method of tunnel construction is C&C (Alternative T3 of the 2021 Concept Design Report). The 2021 Concept Design
Report recommended this tunneling method as an update from the 2010 DEIR.
The advantages of using C&C method include lower cost, shorter construction duration, advance utility relocation,
flexibility in station design to maximize connectivity and ventilation requirements, and lower project risk compared to
other tunneling methods. The preferred station alternative is Station Alternative 1. This alternative locates the station
platform close to the existing Charles/MGH headhouse. This option provides customers with the clearest path of travel
between the Red and Blue platforms as well an entrance within the future MGH Clinical building. The preferred storage
track alternative will be further evaluated and decided in this phase of design. In addition to storage tracks, and in order
to maintain a safe stopping distance beyond the platform, tracks to the west of the new Blue Line station will need to
be constructed. These tracks will not be used for storage of vehicles or equipment.
Charles/MGH Blue Line Station Rendering
Source: FMCB Red Blue Connector, 2021
Gx Red Blue Project Change Description and
TAcoNNECTOR Alternatives Analysis
Indirect and Cumulative Effects
Summary of Previous Findings
The 2010 DEIR summarizes direct and indirect effects (both beneficial and adverse) from the Build and No Build.
Areas Identified for Further Evaluation
The SDEIR and FEIR will evaluate any changes to the potential indirect and direct impacts on resource categories.
Summary of Impact Avoidance and Mitigation
Avoidance and mitigation of impacts to environmental and social resources has been and will continue to be an integral
part of the Red Blue Connector Project throughout the MEPA and NEPA process. The 2010 DEIR summarized both
expected beneficial and adverse impacts from the Project. Beneficial effects of the Project, in addition to improved transit
access for environmental justice communities, would include improved system capacity and extended accessibility. The
2010 DEIR found potential adverse impacts from noise generated by vibration and to groundwater. The mitigation
proposed for each impact include:
» Noise (ground-borne) generated by vibration — installing special track structures at crossover locations
>» Groundwater — installing permeation grouting within the tunnel and underpinning piers and foundations, as
necessary
Due to the lapse in time and change in design components, all benefits, impacts, and proposed mitigation will be further
evaluated in a SDEIR and Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR).
Significance of Proposed Change
While the scope of the Project has not changed, there have been slight changes in design since the 2010 DEIR and due
to the lapse of time, the environmental permitting effort will require further analysis. As was presented to the MEPA
office on May 30, 2023, and June 8, 2023, the updated Preferred Build Alternative presented in the 2021 Concept Design
Report will require a SDEIR and FEIR. The SDEIR and FEIR will analyze the full extent of environmental impacts for the
Preferred Build and No Build and update impact avoidance and mitigation efforts.
Anticipated Project Permits and Approvals
Table 1 below lists the expected permits and approvals found in the 2009 EENF and 2010 DEIR. The SDEIR and FEIR will
have an updated permits and approvals list.
Gx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Project Change Description and
Alternatives Analysis
Table 1 Anticipated Project Permits and Approvals
Agency
Federal
Federal Transit
Administration (if
federally funded)
U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA)
— Region |
Permit/Approval/Review
Finding of No Significant Impact
Section 4(f) Determination
Section 106 Finding
Federal funding approval
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit for
stormwater discharges and construction period
Remediation General Permit (EPA, Federal Register, September 9,
2005)
Section 61 Findings
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
MassDOT/MBTA
Department of
Environmental
Protection (DEP)
Executive Office of Energy
and Environmental Affairs
(MEPA Office)
Massachusetts
Department of
Conservation and
Recreation
Massachusetts Historical
Commission
Massachusetts Water
Resource Authority
Boston
City of Boston
Boston Conservation
Commission
Boston Water & Sewer
Commission
State funding approval
Section 61 Finding
Compliance with Massachusetts
Standards and Regulations
Stormwater Management
Section 61 Finding
Certificate of adequacy from the Secretary
Access permits
Section 61 Finding
Approval of archaeological monitoring plan
Compliance with MWRA NPDES permit No. MA0103284 for
discharges through the Combined Sewer Overflow system
Sewer Use Discharge Permit (issued jointly with MWRA)
8(m) permit
Approval for temporary road closings/detours for construction
Building permits as needed for construction
Order of Conditions for work in Bordering Land Subject to Flooding
Approval for temporary relocation of stormwater and sewer
infrastructure (NPDES Permit No. MA0101192)
Drainage Discharge Permit and/or Dewatering Discharge Permit
Sewer Use Discharge Permit (issued jointly with MWRA)
Status
To be obtained.
To be obtained.
To be obtained.
To be obtained.
To be obtained prior to
construction
To be obtained
Review initiated with this NPC
To be obtained
EENF Certificate issued
November 15, 2007; DEIR
Certificate issued May 28,
2010; NPC submitted herein
To be obtained
To be obtained
To be obtained
To be obtained
To be obtained
To be obtained
To be obtained
To be obtained
To be obtained, if required
To be obtained
To be obtained
To be obtained
13
MBTA Red Blue Connector Project Notice of Project Change
ATTACHMENT 2: Secretary's
Certificate
May 2010 Draft Environmental Impact Report
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900
Boston, MA 02114
Deval L. Patrick
GOVERNOR
Timothy P. Murray
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR Tel: (617) 626-1000
Ian A. Bowles Fax: (617) 626-1181
SECRETARY http://www.mass. gov/envir
May 28, 2010
CERTIFICATE OF THE SECRETARY OF ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS
ON THE
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
PROJECT NAME : Red Line/Blue Line Connector
PROJECT MUNICIPALITY : Boston
PROJECT WATERSHED : Boston Harbor
EOEA NUMBER : 14101
PROJECT PROPONENT : Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT)
DATE NOTICED IN MONITOR _ : April 7, 2010
As Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs, I hereby determine that the Draft
Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) submitted on this project adequately and properly complies
with the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (G. L. c. 30, ss. 61-621) and with its
implementing regulations (301 CMR 11.00). However, I am declining to allow this DEIR to be
considered the Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) (as permitted under 301 CMR
11.08(8)(b)(2)). The Proponent must prepare and submit for review a Final Environmental Impact
Report (FEIR) in response to the limited Scope provided below.
The Red Line/Blue Line Connector project has the potential to provide environmental and
economic benefits associated with increased transit ridership and mobility. However, the project
also presents several challenges in the context to MEPA review related to project timing and
impact assessment. Design of the project is included in the latest revision of the State
Implementation Plan (SIP) and codified in the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection’s (MassDEP) Transit System Improvement Regulations (310 CMR 7.36). The SIP
contains procedures and programs to monitor, control, maintain, and enforce compliance with all
national air quality standards per the Clean Air Act (CAA). The design of the Red Line/Blue Line
Connector is a specific project outlined in the SIP; a project to be undertaken by the Massachusetts
Department of Transportation (MassDOT). As identified in the SIP, final design of the project
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
must be completed by December 31, 2011 in order to comply with the MassDEP Air Pollution
Control Regulations.
The project’s inclusion in the latest SIP revision was intended to allow for project design
so that the project could be implemented readily should the Commonwealth choose to advance the
project. However, at present this project is not listed on the latest Regional Transportation Plan
(RTP) for the Commonwealth that identifies transit projects slated for funding and completion in
the next 20 years, and no funding sources have currently been identified. Given these
circumstances it appears possible that this project will be not constructed within the timeframe
typically associated with MEPA review. Under the MEPA regulations, if a project does not
commence construction within three years of the availability of the FEIR a Notice of Project
Change (NPC) is required, and a new Environmental Notification Form is required after five
years. These provisions of the regulations are intended to ensure meaningful review of
environmental impacts by requiring review of project-related impacts in light of currently-existing
conditions. Therefore, if the Red Line/Blue Line Connector project does not commence
construction within these regulatory time periods, supplemental MEPA review may ultimately be
required. In order to balance the goals embodied in the SIP of advancing the project to design
completion with the constraints inherent in providing detailed information on a project that may
not be constructed in the proximate future, I have limited the remaining items to be evaluated to
key design features and their related environmental impacts. Those items pertaining to
construction period impacts, operations impacts, station design, and other construction-level
details, will need to be reconsidered and reviewed by MassDOT upon determination of a
construction commencement date when a more meaningful review can occur. However, these
topics should be addressed in the Response to Comments to the extent possible.
Commenters on the DEIR have expressed widespread support for the project and its
potential to improve air quality, increase public transit ridership, and improve mobility and
regional access. The project will also improve access to area medical facilities and public open
space along the Charles River. Comments received reflect the challenges associated with
environmental review of a project that has achieved a 10 percent design stage and has an
undetermined commencement date or funding source. This uncertainty necessarily places some
constraints on the project’s ability to fully delineate all environmental impacts at this time, as
some specific mitigation measures may need to be deferred until design is completed or a
construction period context (i.e. timing of construction commencement) is identified. Therefore, I
acknowledge MassDOT’s need to rely on conceptual or draft plans and mitigation measures
during MEPA review as the best available means to disclose and consider environmental impacts
in the project design process.
Project Description
As described in the DEIR, the project consists of the extension of the Massachusetts Bay
Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) Blue Line under Cambridge Street to Charles/MGH Station,
eliminating the existing Bowdoin Station within the City of Boston. The project uses realigned
tracks from 250 feet west of the Government Center Station to Bowdoin Station and new tracks
from Bowdoin Station to Charles/MGH Station. The project consists of several major
components: 1) the realignment of the westbound Blue Line track though Bowdoin Station; 2) a
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
new rapid transit tunnel extending the Blue Line under Cambridge Street, from Joy Street to
Charles Circle; 3) a new underground Blue Line Station connected to the existing Charles/MGH
Station headhouse; and 4) construction of the North and South Tail Tracks beyond Charles/MGH
Station for vehicle storage. The entire project, with the exception of parts of Bowdoin Station and
tail tracks, lies within the right-of-way of Cambridge Street. The majority of the project length
will have two separate tunnels; at the station platforms and crossover, one broad tunnel will be
constructed.
The DEIR included a preliminary cost estimate of the preferred project alternative of $621
million (in 2009 dollars; at the mid-point of construction, the escalated cost would be $748
million) based on a ten percent design level and a 40 percent contingency allowance. The project
construction period is estimated at six years. MassDOT has indicated in the DEIR that it has not
identified funding for the construction of the project and therefore there is no selected date for
commencement of cosntruction. Should additional resources for MBTA expansion projects
become available, MassDOT has noted that this project will be one of the projects considered for
implementation.
As described in the DEIR, the project is an initiative of MassDOT in coordination with the
MBTA to implement enhancements to transit services that will improve mobility and regional
access for the residents of East Boston and North Shore communities and the residents of
Cambridge and the northwestern suburbs. This project is expected to boost transit ridership,
reduce automobile travel through downtown, improve air quality, and reduce congestion in the
existing downtown transfer stations.
MassDOT established a Working Group subsequent to the issuance of the Certificate on
the Expanded Environmental Notification Form (EENF). This Working Group includes members
of neighborhood, civic, and business groups, and the community at-large. According to the DEIR,
the Working Group met on five occasions in 2009 and provided critical guidance to both
MassDOT and the project consultant team to advance project study and design. I anticipate that
this Working Group will continue to convene and provide project guidance to MassDOT
throughout the remainder of the MEPA process and into the project’s final design and beyond to
the construction period. The DEIR indicated that at least six additional meetings are planned as
the project progresses.
Procedural History
The EENF was submitted for MEPA review and noticed in the Environmental Monitor on
September 25, 2007. On November 15, 2007, I issued a Certificate on the EENF outlining the
scope for the DEIR.
As part of the EENF, MassDOT requested in accordance with 301 CMR 11.05(7) that it
fulfill its EIR obligations under MEPA with a Single EIR, rather than the usual process of a Draft
and Final EIR. I declined to grant this request for reasons discussed in the Certificate on the
EENF. The DEIR received an extended comment period of 45 days, commencing on April 7,
2010 and concluding on May 21, 2010.
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
Within the DEIR, MassDOT requested that the DEIR be considered as the FEIR in
accordance with 301 CMR 11.08(8)(b)(2). I have determined that while the DEIR is generally
responsive to the requirements of 301 CMR 11.07 and the Scope, there remain several unresolved
issues requiring additional evaluation that preclude me from exercising my rights to declare that
the DEIR will be considered an FEIR.
Project Permitting and Jurisdiction
The project is undergoing review pursuant to Section 11.03(6)(a)(5) because the project is
being undertaken by a State Agency and will result in the construction of a new rail or rapid transit
line along a new, unused or abandoned right-of-way for transportation of passengers or freight.
The project will require an access permit from the Department of Conservation and Recreation
(DCR) for work affecting Charles Circle. The project may require an Order of Conditions from
the Boston Conservation Commission. The project may require an 8(m) permit from the
Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). The project will also require a National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Construction General Permit (CGP) and a
Remediation General Permit from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S.
EPA).
Because the proponent is a State Agency and will use State funding, MEPA jurisdiction for
this project is broad and extends to all aspects of the project that are likely, directly or indirectly,
to cause Damage to the Environment as defined in the MEPA regulations.
Review of the DEIR
General
The DEIR provided a response to the Secretary’s Certificate on the EENF and included
additional information as necessary to respond to the Scope and respond to comments received on
the EENF. The project as presented in the DEIR is generally consistent with that proposed in the
EENF, however several design modifications were proposed that seek to reduce overall
environmental impacts. These design modifications include the reduction in project track width
from four tracks to two tracks and selection of mined tunnel technology as the preferred
construction methodology for the majority of the project length. The DEIR document referenced
numerous prior studies associated with various aspects of the project; these studies were included
as appendices to the Alternatives Analysis Technical Report, prepared by STV, dated 2009.
Project Description and Permitting
The DEIR described the proposed project including anticipated project phasing and
estimated project costs at a level commensurate with ten percent design. As noted previously,
MassDOT does not have a designated funding source for this project at this time. I received
several comments requesting more detailed cost estimates for inclusion in the FEIR. MEPA
review is an environmental disclosure process, not a vehicle for detailed evaluation of project
costs. Typically, MEPA uses requests for information on project cost as a way to better inform the
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
balancing of environmental impacts between project alternatives. In this case, completion of
preliminary cost estimates revealed that selection of the use of tunnel boring machinery for the
majority of the construction process would result in fewer environmental and construction period
impacts than a cut-and-cover methodology. The level of detail regarding project costs (with the
necessary adjustment for contingencies and inflation due to an uncertain construction
commencement date) included in the DEIR is sufficient to assist in the determination that the
selected project alternative has sought to avoid, minimize and mitigate Damage to the
Environment.
The DEIR provided a history of rapid transit use in the project corridor and the relationship
of this project to other MBTA improvement projects, including the Government Center Station
and Blue Line railway car upgrades. The DEIR also contained a description of other related
regional transportation improvement projects and consistency of the Red Line/Blue Line project
with the parallel project goals.
The DEIR included existing conditions plans and supporting narrative descriptions
detailing adjacent land uses, existing MBTA stations and tracks/tunnels, historic structures, major
utilities, and potentially contaminated properties. Proposed conditions plans depict above ground
and below ground project layout, station locations, track alignment, location of stormwater
management systems, ventilation buildings and emergency exits, limits of work for both cut and
cover and tunnel boring construction techniques, potential staging areas, and other project
components. Several comments noted potential advantages to providing additional access to
Charles/MGH Station via a full access headhouse at the Grove Street intersection or a pedestrian
tunnel leading from Charles/MGH Station directly to land uses located on the north side of
Cambridge Street at Charles Circle. While I am not requesting that the FEIR evaluate these
project components, I encourage MassDOT to consider these potential future connections when
determining final project design and strive not to preclude their implementation should they
become feasible at a later date.
The DEIR also described station locations, anticipated access points and circulation, and
conceptual station layout. The North Tail Track will be located approximately 400 feet from the
proposed west end of the Charles/MGH Blue Line platform to beneath the Massachusetts Eye and
Ear Infirmary (MEEID) parking lot. The South Tail Track will be located approximately 300 feet
from the west end of the Charles/MGH Blue Line platform to beneath the eastern sidewalk of
Charles Street on the south side of Charles Circle. A full crossover will be provided east of
Charles/MGH Station Blue Line platform and a left-hand crossover will be provided east of
Government Center Station. I encourage MassDOT, as project design advances, to consider
comments received regarding the location and layout of the two proposed tail tracks. Notably, but
not limited to, ensuring that design does not preclude future transit expansion of the Blue Line and
confirming that location of tail tracks will not conflict with reasonably foreseeable work on the
Longfellow Bridge or within the Charles River Reservation.
The DEIR described proposed electrical systems including substation locations and signal
and communication systems along the project corridor. The DEIR concluded that no permanent
land takings will be required to achieve the preferred alternative; however, temporary easements
will be required during the construction period, most notably a temporary occupancy permit for
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
work within the Charles River Reservation from DCR. Finally, the DEIR included a list of
anticipated permits and approvals from local, State and federal regulatory authorities.
Alternatives Analysis
Over the years, numerous planning studies have been undertaken by MassDOT to evaluate
potential system modifications to better service the Commonwealth’s transit riders and improve
regional air quality. These studies, along with information shared in the EENF, assisted in
narrowing the focus of the alternatives analysis for the scope on the DEIR. The DEIR presented
an alternatives analysis that evaluated potential environmental impacts associated with three
project alternatives:
1. the No-Build Alternative;
Alternative 1 — Red Line/Blue Line Connector with Eliminated Bowdoin
Station (the Preferred Alternative); and
3. Alternative 2 — Red Line/Blue Line Connector with Relocated Bowdoin
Station.
The DEIR provided a summary of past alternatives analyses and a description of how
alternatives were initially evaluated and screened based upon general feasibility, constructability,
relative cost, transportation benefit, and environmental impact. The DEIR also discussed the
impact of a decommissioned Bowdoin Station on system operations, subway infrastructure (both
above grade and below grade), and emergency egress. The preferred alternative (Alternative 1)
will improve transit connectivity and result in improved transit times along the Blue Line between
Charles/MGH Station and Government Center Station as compared to Alternative 2, but decreased
accessibility to transit for passengers. Alternative 2 will improve access to transit as compared to
Alternative 1, but will result in decreased transit times along the Blue Line between Charles/MGH
Station and Government Center Station. Both alternatives will not adversely impact operations on
the Red Line or Blue Line nor preclude operation of local shuttle services. In note that under the
preferred alternative, the transit populations served by the existing Bowdoin Station will likely be
displaced to either Charles/MGH Station or Government Center Station. I encourage MassDOT,
as they advance plans for the upgrades to Government Center Station, to consider the potential to
serve riders currently using Bowdoin Station with the construction of a full access headhouse to
Government Center Station within the plaza associated with the John F. Kennedy Federal
Building.
The DEIR also discussed further paring of alternatives based upon construction
methodologies (cut-and-cover versus mined tunnel), with evaluation criteria consisting of
transit/service operations, construction impacts, community impacts, environment, relative cost,
and coordination. In an effort to avoid, minimize and mitigate Damage to the Environment, the
preferred alternative will use a tunnel boring machine for the majority of tunnel construction, with
cut-and-cover or sequential excavation mining methods used for the following areas:
1. A550 foot segment east of Bowdoin Station to allow for track realignment and
removal of the tunnel boring machine (cut-and-cover);
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
2. A 100 foot segment east of Charles/MGH Station to allow for construction of a
ventilation room in the area of the track crossover (cut-and-cover); and
3. Construction of the short tail tracks west of Charles/MGH Station (sequential
excavation mining) and excavation of a 150 foot segment of North Trail Track to
allow for access of the tunnel boring machine (cut-and-cover).
Alternative configurations in track width and train storage locations were considered and
ultimately led to the proposed project design, with two tracks and storage tracks provided at the
terminus of the Blue Line. The Certificate on the EENF requested that MassDOT (then the
Executive Office of Transportation (EOT)) provide a response to the suggested use of a pedestrian
tunnel in lieu of a rapid transit connection between Bowdoin Station and Charles/MGH Station.
The Certificate did not request the preparation of an alternatives analysis for the pedestrian tunnel
at a level commensurate with that requested for the No Build, Build with Elimination of Bowdoin
Station and Build with Relocated Bowdoin Station alternatives. Accordingly, MassDOT’s
response stated that use of a pedestrian tunnel, or people-mover technology was not a viable
alternative that met the project’s purpose as established by the project Proponent (MEPA, as an
environmental disclosure process, does not establish a project’s purpose, the Proponent does).
Furthermore, MassDOT concluded that a pedestrian tunnel does not meet the regulatory
requirement of extending rapid transit service to connect the Red Line and Blue Line as it does not
result in an improvement in transit by reducing the existing “three-seat trip” for Blue Line riders
who travel to destinations on the Red Line.
The DEIR described impacts associated with each alternative on station location and
system operations, project cost, tunnel and track alignment, conceptual station design, stormwater
and groundwater management systems and ridership. Information on project-related impacts
associated with noise, vibration, air quality, historical resources, environmental justice populations
and construction period activities were also presented in a manner that allowed for comparison
between project alternatives.
Land
The DEIR clarified jurisdictional areas within the project corridor with regard to right-of-
way ownership, identified those areas classified as park lands, and areas designated as
Commonwealth Tidelands protected under M.G.L. c.91. Both Cardinal Cushing Park (located
near Bowdoin Station) and the Charles River Reservation are protected parks in accordance with
Article 97 of the Amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth (Article 97). The
preferred alternative will not permanently impact park resources within the project area.
Modifications to Charles/MGH Station will require the relocation outward of an exterior wall
which would limit impact to the existing exterior walkway around the station, which occupies
Charles Circle. Underground components of the project will not change the recreational use of the
Charles River Reservation or Cardinal Cushing Park. Temporary impacts to park resources during
the construction period will include pedestrian detours or access restrictions. MassDOT will
obtain a temporary occupancy permit from DCR during the project construction period for work
on DCR property and roadways.
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
The portion of the project area along Cambridge Street east from the river to North
Anderson Street, and adjacent land uses and public walkways, are presumed by MassDOT to be
Landlocked Tidelands. Temporary (construction period) impacts to Landlocked Tidelands include
excavating fill and placing structures along Cambridge Street during the tunnel boring phase of the
project. Impacts will also include temporary traffic detouring and limited public access along
adjacent walkways during construction. There will be no permanent impacts to Landlocked
Tidelands. Contrary to what the proponent concluded in the DEIR, because the project submitted
its EENF prior to November 15, 2007, I will not be required to conduct a Public Benefit
Determination (301 CMR 13.00) for this project.
The preferred alternative will result in the permanent removal of approximately 175,000
cubic yards of soil. According to the DEIR, spoils from the tunnel boring machine will be
temporarily stockpiled on-site before transport, while material from cut-and-cover excavations
will be directly loaded into dump trucks and hauled off-site for disposal. The DEIR included as
part of the Alternatives Analysis Technical Report a Geotechnical Report that analyzed on-site
soils and assisted in the selection of construction methodologies.
Transit Ridership
The DEIR and related Ridership Technical Memorandum provided updated transit
ridership data that incorporated anticipated service area growth and changes in trip distribution
and boardings for both Alternative 1 and Alternative 2. The DEIR predicted an increase in
ridership on the Blue Line of 4,400 for Alternative 1, and 4,200 for Alternative 2. A comparison
of boardings for both alternatives estimated shifts in boardings along the Red Line and Blue Line
at Charles/MGH, Park Street, Downtown Crossing, Bowdoin, Government Center, and State
Stations. The redistribution of boardings at major downtown transit stations will provide
congestion relief in many of the busiest stations within the transit system.
As part of the Alternatives Analysis Technical Report, an analysis of ridership and rapid
transit operations was prepared. This memorandum discussed the regional travel model set of the
Central Transportation Planning Staff (CTPS), which includes a four-step travel-modeling process
of trip generation, trip distribution, mode choice, and trip assignment. A model set was developed
for the Red Line/Blue Line Connector and presented as the basis for transit ridership models and
related project-benefits as presented in the DEIR. This model included assumptions related to
subway operating parameters (i.e., number and type of vehicles, vehicle capacity, travel time, and
peak and off-peak headways). Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) reductions were determined for the
design year (2030) based on a comparison of the projected vehicle trips under the No-Build
Alternative (new and diverted trips) projected under both build alternatives. This VMT modeling
reflected anticipated changes to transportation infrastructure, including projects in the
Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) and long-range regional plans.
Access to Government Center and Charles/MGH Stations are not anticipated to be affected
by construction, although pedestrian walkways may be temporarily detoured to accommodate
certain construction activities. Bowdoin Station will be closed during construction and Blue Line
service will terminate at Government Center Station. Other transportation modes (i.e. public
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
buses, private hospital shuttle buses) will be temporarily impacted during construction, except for
local access to MGH, during night-time and weekend construction hours.
Traffic and Transportation
The project will result in a net reduction of vehicle trips in comparison with a No Build
Alternative. Regionally, either build alternative is estimated to reduce weekday VMT by
approximately 5,250 (in 2030). Additionally, the primary mode of access to the new Blue Line
Station at Charles/MGH would be by walking or by transfer from the Red Line inside the
expanded Charles/MGH Station. No dedicated parking is anticipated in conjunction with this
project due to its urban location. The project will not result in an increase in headways for either
build alternative. Travel times to the end of the line, at Charles/MGH Station, will increase by
about 30 seconds for Alternative 1 and two minutes for Alternative 2.
The DEIR included a detailed traffic study that presented existing and proposed conditions
under the build and no-build alternatives for traffic volumes, operations, safety, emergency vehicle
and truck access, pedestrians and bicycles, and parking. This analysis, subsequent to consultation
with DCR, MassDOT, and the City of Boston Transportation Department (BTD), evaluated the
following intersections within the study area:
e Charles Circle — Longfellow Bridge outbound/Storrow Drive westbound off-ramp;
e Charles Circle — Charles Street/Storrow Drive eastbound off-ramp/Longfellow Bridge
inbound;
Charles Circle — Charles Street northbound/Storrow Drive westbound on-ramp;
North Grove Street/Grove Street;
North Anderson Street/Anderson Street;
Blossom Street/Garden Street;
Joy Street;
Staniford Street/Temple Street;
New Chardon Street/Bowdoin Street; and
New Sudbury Street/Somerset Street.
According to the traffic study presented in the DEIR, traffic operations along the majority
of intersections along Cambridge Street would see minor improvements to overall average
intersection delay under either Alternative 1 or 2, compared to the No-Build Alternative. No
intersections would result in a loss of Level of Service. The DEIR indicates that there will be no
long-term impacts to emergency access or truck routes in the project area. Pedestrian activity will
be modified slightly in the vicinity of Bowdon Station (based upon the retention or elimination of
the station) under both project alternatives, as compared to the No-Build scenario. However,
pedestrian levels of service will remain unchanged in both Alternatives. Furthermore, neither
build alternative will physically alter designated bicycle facilities or public parking supply.
Construction period traffic and parking impacts are detailed later in this Certificate.
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
Air Quality
A key attribute of the Red Line/Blue Line Connector is its potential to reduce local air
quality impacts by maximizing public transit service and replacing some vehicle trips with rapid
transit. Prior to preparation of the DEIR, MassDOT consulted with both MassDEP and the U.S.
EPA regarding air quality modeling protocols. The Air Quality Technical Memorandum prepared
as part of the Alternatives Analysis Technical Report concluded that there were no major
differences identified in the local (microscale) analysis of carbon monoxide (CO) emissions in
2030 between the two build alternatives, and both showed improvements when compared to the
No-Build Alternative. Emission levels for each alternative are estimated to be below the National
Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for the 1-hour and 8-hour reporting periods. A regional
(mesoscale) analysis estimated the area wide emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
oxides of nitrogen (NOx), carbon dioxide (COz), CO, and particulate matter ((PM) both PMjo and
PM, 5) in 2030. The DEIR concluded that all project alternatives would result in reductions of
these pollutants as compared to 2009 levels, and all parameters would be below the current
applicable NAAQS. The project is not expected to generate any substantial amount of air toxics in
the study area because the train engines are electric and will not result in the combustion of fuels.
The DEIR included modeling data and assumptions to support the conclusions of the Air Quality
Technical Memorandum.
The DEIR states that the project, as proposed, is consistent with the SIP and MassDEP’s
Transit Regulations because either build alternative will result in decreased emissions of regulated
air pollutants as compared to the No-Build Alternative and MassDOT is advancing project design
to meet the SIP requirement to have the project’s final design completed by December 31, 2011.
The project will not require State or Federal Agency air quality permits.
I note comments received from the Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) indicating its
belief that MassDOT has not demonstrated consistency with the SIP due to perceived errors in the
air quality modeling methodology. After consulting with MassDEP and MassDOT, I respectfully
disagree with this assertion. Transportation modeling is inherently fluid and dynamic; data inputs
and modeling refinements are constantly integrated into updated modeling runs with an end goal
of providing the most accurate and up to date predictions of actual transportation impacts possible.
In acknowledgement of the anticipated evolution of modeling techniques and data inputs, the SIP
provides a provision (310 CMR 7.36(9)) whereby upon substantial completion of a project,
MassDOT shall complete an analysis of the total air quality benefits of such projects and such
analysis shall be performed in accordance with U.S. EPA requirements in effect at the time of the
analysis. Thus, the predictive modeling provided at this stage of project development is back-
stopped by the use of actual data upon substantial completion of the project. This provides further
support for the understanding that air quality data evolves over time through the use of updated
modeling assumptions. However, I acknowledge that the air quality modeling methodology can
be difficult for the average project reviewer to understand without the benefit of direct access to
modeling experts. Therefore, as noted later in this Certificate, I have required MassDOT to
provide a narrative clarifying the relationships of air quality modeling data to MassDEP and EPA
requirements for SIP consistency as part of the FEIR.
10
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
Noise/Vibration
The DEIR presented an analysis of existing and proposed noise and vibration conditions
along the project corridor for both build alternatives, prepared based upon methodology defined in
the FTA guidance manual Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment (Report FTA-VA-90-
1003-06, May 2006). The DEIR included a description of background information on the subject
matter, a description of FTA sensitive land-use categories, identified sensitive locations along the
corridor, and contained measurement results of the existing noise conditions for both noise and
vibration impacts.
Generally, the use of an underground subway tunnel effectively mitigates airborne noise
generated by trains. Airborne noise sources from transit operations are limited to a traction power
substation near Charles/MGH Station and fans in ventilation shafts in the median of Cambridge
Street at North Anderson Street and near the eliminated Bowdoin Station. The DEIR concluded
that there will be no potential airborne noise impact from transit operations and no mitigation or
noise monitoring program will be required for operations-related noise impacts.
As part of the noise analysis, the DEIR also considered construction period noise impacts
associated with the potential types of construction equipment that may be used. Potential noise
impact from construction activities were assessed as FTA Category 2 (residential, hotel, hospital
beds) receptors for daytime, evening and nighttime periods and at institutional and commercial
receptors for the daytime period. The DEIR concluded that short-term construction period noise
impacts in a worst-case scenario without mitigation may impact up to 26 residential properties and
26 commercial and institutional properties. As mitigation, the DEIR has proposed the preparation
of a Noise Control Plan in conjunction with the selected contractor’s specific equipment, schedule,
and methods of construction, specification maximum noise limits for each equipment type,
prohibition of certain types of equipment during nighttime hours, and engineering noise control
measures.
According to the DEIR, vibration levels may increase during Red Line/Blue Line
operations. The DEIR evaluated potential impacts of ground-borne vibration for humans in
residential, institutional, and special buildings, vibration-sensitive equipment, and damage to
structures. The DEIR concluded that there would be no adverse effect of ground-borne vibration
impact from transit operations to hotels, hospital beds, institutional land uses, or sensitive
equipment. The DEIR identified potential operational ground-borne vibration impacts to four
multi-family residences near the crossover by Charles/MGH Station. Mitigation measures
consisting of spring-rail frogs, moveable-point frogs, or flange-bearing frogs will be implemented
to eliminate this vibration source. MassDOT has indicated that there will be no operations-related
vibration monitoring plan.
The DEIR concluded that vibration levels may increase during the construction period at
the MEEI building at 325 Cambridge Street and the multi-family residential building at 315
Cambridge Street. The DEIR notes that there are no regulatory requirements for managing
vibration during construction activities. To mitigate potential impacts, the selected contractor will
need to use specific construction methodologies and equipment. MassDOT should specifically
11
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
work with these property owners when finalizing design and selection construction methodologies
to ensure that vibration impacts can effectively be mitigated.
Stormwater
The DEIR described existing surface water (Charles River) and stormwater management
resources within the project corridor. The DEIR illustrated the location of existing drainage areas
and treatment control structures. The stormwater management system is controlled primarily by
the Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC); however, some storm drains and outfalls are
privately owned or are owned by agencies such as MassDOT or DCR. The Cambridge Street
corridor contains a piped system that carries both sewage and stormwater flows to the MWRA
Deer Island Wastewater Treatment plant. According to the DEIR, the Cambridge Street corridor
is comprised of one drainage area that discharges to one Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) outfall
along the Charles River (MWRAQO22).
The existing stormwater management system will be temporarily altered and relocated
during construction to accommodate excavation activities. The DEIR states that the drainage
system will be reconstructed to its original alignment in accordance with BWSC requirements
upon completion of each phase of construction. Altered CSO infrastructure will be separated into
stormwater and sanitary sewer infrastructure per the BWSC Sanitary Sewer regulations. The
DEIR contained a stormwater management plan, prepared in compliance with the MassDEP
Stormwater Management Standards and Regulations (2008) and NPDES CGP requirements. As a
redevelopment project, the project will meet Standards 1,2, and 3, as well as the pretreatment and
Best Management Practices (BMPs) requirements of Standard 4 of the MassDEP Stormwater
Management Standards and Regulations. The project will seek coverage under the existing
BWSC NPDES permit for CSO discharges to the Charles River. The DEIR also included a draft
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) prepared in accordance with the NPDES CGP for
use during the construction period, as well as a draft post-construction erosion and sedimentation
control plan. The MassDEP comment letter has identified construction-related concerns
pertaining to temporary relocation of portions of the drainage system and detention of stormwater
during construction. MassDOT should consider these concerns in final project design.
Groundwater
The DEIR presented information on project area soils and groundwater conditions, as well
as associated regulatory permitting requirements. The DEIR indicated that according to the
Boston Groundwater Trust (BGT) groundwater in the project vicinity (Shawmut Peninsula) is
altered from natural conditions (i.e. drawdown) due to impacts from the local sewer system. The
permanent tunnels, stations, and auxiliary underground structures required for the project will be
designed to be as waterproof as practicable to avoid issues associated with permanently lowering
the groundwater table. Preliminary estimates presented in the DEIR conclude that leakage into the
permanent structures will be less than aquifer recharge. Portions of the project area are located
within in an expected zone of settlement. MassDOT will develop a monitoring program to
identify and remedy problem situations related to structural integrity. MassDOT will also
implement a groundwater monitoring program that will continue after construction to ensure that
adverse long-term impacts to the water table do not occur. The DEIR included a description of
12
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
test parameters associated with a groundwater monitoring plan that would be used during the pre-
construction, active construction, and post-construction periods. Dewatering is anticipated during
the construction period and the project will likely require an MWRA Temporary Construction Site
Dewatering Discharge Permit.
Open Space and Historic Resources
The DEIR discussed previously known and documented historic and archaeological
resources, as well as newly identified resources that are listed, determined eligible for listing, or
recommended eligible for listing in the Massachusetts State Register (State Register) and the
National Register of Historic Places (National Register). The DEIR included a summary of
historic properties within the project’s Area of Potential Effect (APE). The majority of the project
area has no to low archaeological sensitivity, however due to the location of the historic shoreline,
the project area extending west from Anderson Street and including Charles Circle is considered a
high archaeological sensitivity area. Detailed descriptions of historic resources within the APE
were evaluated as part of the Historic Resources Reconnaissance Survey appended to Alternatives
Analysis Technical Report.
Studies performed in conjunction with the preparation of the DEIR have concluded that the
project will not directly impact any historic resources, as there would be no operational noise,
vibration, or land acquisition impacts that would deem the project non-compliant with regulatory
requirements. The DEIR presented mitigation measures to offset potential impacts to
archaeological resources that may occur during the construction period. MassDOT has identified
the need for additional archaeological investigations in high sensitivity areas to locate, identify,
evaluate, and record significant cultural deposits.
MassDOT will develop a monitoring program to describe archaeological resource
management requirements if resources are encountered during construction activities. The MHC
letter on the DEIR has requested that historic structures in the APE be monitored during
construction for any potential adverse effects. The DEIR indicated that MassDOT has initiated
consultation with MHC to develop the monitoring plan. This monitoring program will be
developed in consultation with the Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) to ensure
compliance with regulatory requirements including, but not limited to, the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966. Finally, MHC has recommended that consideration be given to historic
resources during the advancement of station design and potential impacts to the Beacon Hill
Historic District associated with the above ground structures proposed as part of the project. I
encourage MassDOT to work with MHC during the ongoing consultation process to address these
concerns.
Hazardous Waste/Contaminated Soils
The DEIR included a description of potential hazardous materials (including special
wastes) and solid wastes present or potentially present within and surrounding the project area.
The DEIR included an updated list of hazardous waste sites consistent with MassDEP comments
and a summary of contaminated sites immediately adjacent to the project corridor characterizing
the nature of contamination and clean-up status. MassDOT has performed a Limited
13
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
Environmental Site Assessment for the project which identified over 400 hazardous material
disposal sites within, adjacent to, or in the vicinity of the project area and recorded the
Massachusetts Contingency Plan (MCP) database. The DEIR indicated that a subset of 34 MCP-
listed sites were determined to have some potential to impact soils or groundwater within the
project corridor. Three of these sites were determined to have a high potential for impact and were
evaluated in detail as part of the DEIR.
A soil and groundwater management plan, describing testing protocols, on-site
management, and eventual treatment or disposal, will be finalized prior to construction. The
DEIR included a draft Soil and Groundwater Management Plan, prepared based upon the current
level of design. This document discusses soil stockpiling and disposal, groundwater management
protocols, potential permitting requirements, and responsible parties. The DEIR also discussed
solid waste and hazardous waste management issues associated with the construction and
demolition of Bowdoin Station.
MassDEP has indicated that pre-characterization of soils within the excavation alignment
will be necessary. Additionally, dust/air monitoring will need to be conducted to establish action
levels for implementing engineering controls and/or stop work orders. Based upon determined
reportable concentration (RC) levels, soils will need to be disposed of in accordance with
applicable MassDEP regulations. Groundwater proposed for recharge back into the subsurface
will also be required to meet applicable groundwater RC standards or discharged upgradient of the
excavation within the capture zone. I expect MassDOT to establish decontamination
specifications upon completion of final project design. These specifications should be prepared
consistent with applicable MassDEP regulations and guidelines.
Water/Wastewater
Wastewater flows generated during the construction will be limited to stormwater and
collected groundwater (from seepage) that will need to be treated and discharged in accordance
with MassDEP and BWSC requirements. Staff restrooms will be provided at the Charles/MGH
Station, with nominal wastewater flows and water supply requirements anticipated.
Construction Period Impacts
As indicated in the DEIR, the majority of project-related impacts will be temporary in
nature and incurred during the construction period. Both build alternatives will have the same
temporary construction impacts primarily associated with the open cut-and-cover excavations
between Bowdoin Station and Government Center Station, and near Charles/MGH Station. A
preliminary general Construction Phasing Plan was presented, consisting of six major phases and a
construction duration of six years, three months. No permanent construction easements will be
necessary to facilitate construction or operation of the project; however, temporary construction
easements will be required from DCR for work within the Charles River Reservation, from MEEI
for work in the parking lot under the elevated Red Line, and from the Boston Redevelopment
Authority for work in the plaza in front of the John F. Kennedy Federal Building. I note
comments received from MWRA indicating that an 8(m) permit may be required for construction-
related work near MWRA infrastructure or within MWRA easements.
14
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
The project will comply with MassDEP’s Solid Waste and Air Quality Control regulations
during construction. MassDOT has committed to conducting construction activities in accordance
with appropriate City of Boston ordinances for managing nuisance conditions including dust,
noise, odor, and rodent control. To accommodate a project staging area, access to the MEEI
parking lot north of Charles/MGH Station, leased from DCR to MEEI, will be eliminated during
construction. A temporary parking structure will be placed on a portion of the site to mitigate the
loss of full access to the parking lot by MEEI.
MassDOT has presented a conceptual Traffic Management Plan that maintains four lanes
of traffic along Cambridge Street, with the exception of weekends and overnight during some
periods. This Traffic Management Plan seeks to direct through traffic around residential areas
within the West End and Beacon Hill. Impacts to pedestrian access to businesses and public
transportation will be minimized through use of temporary walkways and detours. The DEIR
identified the location and scale of construction period impacts to parking and loading zones
within the project corridor. Given the proximity of the project to hospitals and a Boston Fire
Department Station, MassDOT has committed to maintain emergency access at all times
throughout the area. However, temporary disruptions to existing emergency vehicle, Partners
Shuttle, and truck routes will occur during the closure and detour of Cambridge and New Sudbury
Streets on nights and weekends over the course of the project. As design advances, MassDOT
must coordinate closures with emergency response officials to ensure unimpeded access as needed
to these important facilities. The DEIR also presented truck routes for use by vehicles involved in
the soil removal process during construction. I note the comments received from DCR on the
proposed truck routes and potential conflicts with restrictions on DCR Parkways; MassDOT
should consider this guidance prior to finalizing truck routing plans.
To mitigate construction period air quality impacts, MassDOT and the MBTA will
contractually require the construction contractors to adhere to all applicable regulations regarding
control of construction vehicle emissions. Excessive idling of construction equipment will be
implemented as required by MassDEP regulations (310 CMR 7.11). Finally, all construction
specifications will require that all diesel construction equipment use on-site be fitted with after-
engine emission controls, such as diesel oxidation catalysts (DOCs) or diesel particulate filters
(DPFs).
The DEIR indicated that a complete inventory of affected utilities will be conducted as
design advances. Buried utilities within each open excavation area will be temporarily relocated
during construction. The selection of a construction methodology that predominantly utilizes a
tunnel boring machine will reduce project impacts on utility infrastructure. The DEIR notes that
the West Side Interceptor and the Boston Marginal Conduit, major components of the Boston
Main Drainage System (BMDS) will need to be relocated during construction and replaced in their
original location upon completion of excavation work.
As noted previously, the Red Line/Blue Connector project is not scheduled or programmed
for construction. The project corridor is proximate to a number of large-scale infrastructure
projects that are scheduled to be constructed in the next five to 20 years. In discussing the Red
Line/Blue Line Connector’s consistency with regional projects and planning, the DEIR notes that
15
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
the three other projects within 0.25 miles of the project corridor are all slated to commence and
complete construction in advance of construction of the Red Line/Blue Line Connector. The
Construction Phasing Plan and Traffic Management Plan presented in the DEIR remain
conceptual in nature, reflective of the project’s design status (ten percent). MassDOT intends to
keep these plans flexible to allow for integration with other nearby transportation projects as
necessary. Members of the Working Group should remain engaged in the finalization of these
construction period management plans.
SCOPE
As discussed above, I am providing the following Scope for the preparation of a FEIR,
limited to the topics outlined below which related to finalizing project design. Although I
recognize that this Scope will not address every issue raised by project commenters, and in
particular will not resolve outstanding issues related to detailed construction period management
and mitigation, I am confident that resolution of the remaining aspects listed below will allow
MassDOT to demonstrate that the project has fully complied with the requirements of MEPA and
the SIP. Additional topics will be addressed through the state and local permitting process at the
time the project ultimately moves forward and through MassDOT’s ongoing community
involvement processes with the established project Working Group. As noted above, additional
details may be reviewed if further MEPA review is required in the future. I also expect that issues
raised in comment letters will be comprehensively addressed in the Response to Comments
required below.
The FEIR should follow Section 11.07 of the MEPA regulations for outline and content, as
modified by this Certificate. The FEIR should identify, describe and assess environmental
impacts of any changes in the project that have occurred between the preparation of the DEIR and
FEIR.
Air Quality
The FEIR should include a narrative discussion clarifying the air quality modeling
assumptions, challenges associated with the inherent evolution of modeling programs and input
data, and how the air quality modeling results were conducted in a manner that sufficiently
demonstrated consistency with the SIP.
Article 97 Land
The FEIR should confirm the proposed placement of permanent ventilation/access shafts
associated with the project on DCR property. If these permanent structures will be placed on DCR
property, they will be subject to Article 97 and the FEIR must discuss how the project will meet
the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Article 97 Policy. To further
assist in the assessment of potential project impacts to Article 97 lands, the FEIR should provide
additional information on the proposed temporary parking structure to be located in the MEEI
parking lot as requested in the DCR comment letter on the DEIR. Additionally, DCR has
indicated that soil stockpiling at the MEEI parking lot may be restricted by existing road
infrastructure that bisects the property. MassDOT should affirm in the FEIR that the parking
16
EEA# 14101 DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
parcel is sufficient to accommodate the various project needs. If not, the FEIR should present
conceptual locations to meet project staging, parking and stockpiling needs within the project
corridor.
Stormwater
The FEIR should respond to MassDEP’s comment noting that the MWRA and the Final
Nutrient TMDL Development for the Lower Charles River Basin TMDL indicate that the CSO
outfall, MWRAO22, designed to receive flows from the project, is closed. The FEIR should
provide revised information on the drainage system and NPDES permit requirements, or the issue
should be explained further to resolve the contradiction. Furthermore, the FEIR should address
how project stormwater discharges will affect the Prison Point facility and the MWRA’s Boston
Marginal Conduit. As requested by MassDEP, the FEIR should address how water quality
improvement measures may be incorporated into the project design for consistency with the
applicable NPDES General Permit.
Mitigation/Section 61 Findings
The FEIR should include a separate chapter on mitigation measures. This chapter on
mitigation should include updated draft Section 61 findings for each State Agency action. The
draft Section 61 Findings should contain a clear commitment to specific mitigation items and/or
the establishment of construction period mitigation plans, a conceptual schedule for
implementation, an estimate of the individual costs of the proposed mitigation to the maximum
extent that they can be determined at this time, and the identification of the parties responsible for
implementing the mitigation.
Comments/Circulation
The FEIR should contain a copy of this Certificate and a copy of each comment letter
received. The FEIR should respond fully to each substantive comment received to the extent that
itis within MEPA jurisdiction. This directive is not intended to and shall not be construed to
enlarge the Scope of the FEIR beyond what has been expressly identified in this Certificate.
In accordance with Section 11.16 of the MEPA Regulations and as modified by this
Certificate, the MassDOT should circulate a hard copy of the FEIR to each State and city agency
from which MassDOT will seek permits. The MassDOT should also circulate a copy of the FEIR
to those submitting individual written comments. To save paper and other resources, MassDOT
may circulate the FEIR in CD-ROM format, although MassDOT should make available a
reasonable number of hard copies, to accommodate those without convenient access to a computer
to be distributed upon request on a first come, first served basis. In addition, a copy of the FEIR
should be made available for public review at the Boston, Revere, Chelsea, Winthrop, Cambridge,
and Somerville public libraries.
May 28, 2010 il. N 2.
Date Tan A. Bowles
17
EEA# 14101
DEIR Certificate May 28, 2010
Comments received:
04/14/2010
05/11/2010
05/19/2010
05/20/2010
05/20/2010
05/20/2010
05/20/2010
05/21/2010
05/21/2010
05/21/2010
05/21/2010
05/21/2010
05/21/2010
05/21/2010
05/21/2010
05/21/2010
05/25/2010
05/25/2010
IAB/HSJ/hsj
Dan Fox
Salvatore LaMattina, Boston City Councilor, District 1
Partners HealthCare System, Inc. and its affiliate Massachusetts General Hospital
Carlo Basile, State Representative, 1* Suffolk District
MassDOT (public hearing transcript)
Massachusetts Water Resources Authority
A Better City
Sierra Club
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection - NERO
Massachusetts Historical Commission
Conservation Law Foundation
Fred Salvucci
Walk Boston
Edward O. Nilsson
Downtown North Association
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation
Mayor Thomas G. Ambrosino, City of Revere
Metropolitan Area Planning Council
18
MBTA Red Blue Connector Project Notice of Project Change
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
MBTA Red Blue Connector Project Notice of Project Change
ATTACHMENT 3: Figures
Figure 1: USGS Project Boundary and Location
Figure 2a & 2b: Previously Reviewed Build Condition
Figure 3: Currently Proposed Build Condition
Figure 1: USGS Site Location Map = Blue
MBTA Red-Blue Connector | Boston, Massachusetts ee ecw oie lu :
EI SAD VV SARNRacce
VOTO i Jo LON ~ I Pare ®
7 NN he Gt hi he
(| gw Nir Pa
— VT 7 SNARES
a Wes See?
Ss XOoCherest eis ;
x Ww we hos
WAN \5
t eae
Zale 4
Ad Xo.
PX
/, SY oA f
. 77
ame
x
=f
7
4
Z
\\ BS
me
Do gt ee aw }
LAND Wty Le
ASS iff
RS ~ BAA’ Ki Gor
WERE ey
i}
~
Project Area
_ 2,000 4,000 Feet
CJ Municipal Boundary
Source: USGS, MassGI/S, VHB, MBTA
pial ny
et Eg
£'r\p
oy)
“Has
E STREET)
a
q NOR GROVI
CAMBRIDGE
STREET)
PARKIN!
~ GARAGE
1
SS =
ee ees
~~ ie ee “ms acl We i=
j=
IRVING
Be]
4
E
a
=
©
8
e
iS)
[S)
oh
a)
2
®
ro
€
|
=e = jee os | Key ee © Receiving[Shatt
=a gs: F top| et | ; = . ck - i (les om feel, 7
t i 7 S a P ea. . y i@t
~ Bue ee ee ~~ DEPARTMENT, ; A > iS 2 . = ce Eola } ‘bees
BOWDOIN. STREET
ne]
>|
Ee
a
(7)
oO
uw
ae
5
|
[s}
La
fo]
of
7
fo]
2
a)
i=
£
D
=
=z
a
+
oD
_ (BUILDING
SEEMNSIES ETO
LEVERETT
Pecuctcs
\\MABOS\projects\10803.00\GIS\project\EIR\Fig
Red Line/ Blue Line Connector Project
Moving Massachusetts Forward. ° <
Project Area Track Alignment Proposed Platform Ea Cut and Cover 77 Pa | Ss. Ss, DO ; F igure 2b:
I 1 . — : .
C44; Proposed Open Mined Shaft ———~ Proposed Tunnel Existing Blue Line = Sequential Excavation Mining Massachusetts Department of Transportation
aa Track Alignment
Red Line
Az Blue Line
CONNECTOR
120 Feet Sources: MassGIS & BWSC
Previously Reviewed Build Condition (2010 DEIR)
ae Tunnel Boring Machine &3
Onl
yaa 1S|WOSS
= ‘Gime STREETS
ee | # lL’ / TR oy ~
i | | l= [; B
ott North Run Out Lm . =! * See eS iba Sat a ae “t iM
° : by tae . = >. ee ee = i “ane
Aus [Track Egress Shaft ‘a | * Fp _ rns ; : Y - th if.
— | Ls |New Headhouse within} = aie = Tunnel Egress st mn
/ Pa RIVER|PLAZA\ ee
= Areal : y | , ai eee hl ap
wr Be ts : y aa 5
#2 eds Clinical Building
TR = / d 4 E/ a BOSON
reat ys
eo
=]
Lie
— Fie 7
~ {South Runout} =
[rack Crossoverl
on a4 Pocket Storage Track
. a
Bowdoin Station closed
to passengers
| ay :
LINDALLXCO!
#
H
aaa STREET : 5
o
a aa
ae LT)
i?
g ‘an
J an ; =. x
Ee
— *
ml =.
SB cH:. “IPNEY, PUACE bala
z , a a
BIRVING/STREETS =
-
Au
rey
[4
=
2)
=
(e)
(=)
=
fe)
(“*)
= Sa
EET
4
Se ismitH\court,
PEFENS DEES
1aau1S)IDODNV.
7 y- - . oh . * ~ K oe ll ara : ; “
, ‘Wig |F = = i a = \ ‘0 ae 5 fr " r
be | South Run Out Rc hy aes We ae ee a me <. 7. ams 2 ae) oe | L
Track Egress Shaft} righ i ee H ee
- 3 Ls rr) :
LaaULS)AOG
SSOMERSET/sTR
fe] §
MYRTLE|STREETS
iTREMONTSSTREET)
4
=
7
= Project Area Y//] Cut and Cover
Massachusetts Bay
MEE Red Line KY sem
Transportation Authority Figure 3:
MGM Blue Line oR Station Headhouse Within New MGH Building
Gx Currently Proposed Build Condition
New Above Grade Structures
T) MBTA Tranist Station Co Red B | U e
Source: VHB, MassGIS
ES Existing Charles/MGH Headhouse a We ONNECTOR
Aerial Date: October 2021
MBTA Red Blue Connector Project Notice of Project Change
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
MBTA Red Blue Connector Project Notice of Project Change
ATTACHMENT 4: Circulation List
Gx Red Blue _ notice of Project Change Circulation List
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Below is a list of all agencies and persons to whom the Proponent circulated the Notice of Project Change,
in accordance with 301 CMR 11.16(3).
Federal Agencies
U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Transit Administration
Kendall Square
55 Broadway, Suite 920
Cambridge, MA 02142-1093
Attn: Peter Butler, Regional Administrator, Region 1
U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration
Transportation Systems Center
Attn: Joi Singh, Division Administrator
Kendall Square
55 Broadway, Suite 910
Cambridge, MA 02142-1093
State and Regional Agencies and Officials
Attn: MEPA Office
100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900
Boston, MA 02114
mepa@mass.gov
Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
Massachusetts Department of Transportation
Public/Private Development Unit
Attn: J. Lionel Lucien
10 Park Plaza Suite #4150
Boston, MA 02116
MassDOTPPDU @dot.state.ma.us
Department of Environmental Protection
Attn: Commissioner's Office
One Winter Street
Boston, MA 02108
helena.boccodaro@mass.gov
Massachusetts Department of Transportation
— District #6
Attn: MEPA Coordinator
185 Kneeland Street
Boston, MA 02111
michael.garrity@dot.state.ma.us
Massachusetts Historical Commission
Attn: Brona Simon
The MA Archives Building
220 Morrissey Boulevard
Boston, MA 02125
brona.simon@state.ma.us
Massachusetts Water Resources Authority
Attn: MEPA Coordinator
100 First Avenue
Charlestown Navy Yard
Boston, MA 02129
katherine.ronan@mwra.com
Metropolitan Area Planning Council
Attn: Executive Director
60 Temple Place
Boston, MA 02111
mpillsbury@mapc.org
afelix@mapc.org
Massachusetts Aeronautics Commission
Attn: Jeffrey DeCarlo, Administrator
10 Park Plaza, Room 3510
Boston, MA 02116
Jeffrey.decarlo@dot.state.ma.us
fx Red Blue _ notice of Project Change Circulation List
TACONNECTOR
MEPA Office Department of Conservation & Recreation
Attn: EEA EJ Director Attn: MEPA Coordinator
100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900 10 Park Plaza Suite 6620
Boston, MA 02144 Boston, MA 02116
MEPA-EJ@mass.gov andy.backman@mass.gov
Massachusetts Highway Department Boston Region Metropolitan Planning
Attn: Highway Administrator Organization
10 Park Plaza, Room 3170 c/o Central Transportation Planning Staff
Boston, MA 02116 Attn: Tegin Teich, Executive Director
jonathan.gulliver@dot.state.ma.us 10 Park Plaza, Room 2150
Boston, MA 02116
tteich@ctps.org
Local Agencies
City of Boston City of Boston
Transportation Department The Environmental Department
Attn: Vineet Gupta, Director of Planning Attn: Dr. Allison Brizius, Commissioner of
One City Hall Square, Room 721 Environmental Department
Boston, MA 02201 One City Hall Square, Room 805
vineet.qgupta@boston.gov Boston, MA 02201
environment@boston.gov
Boston Planning & Development Agency Mayor's Office
Attn: Arthur Jemison Attn: Michelle Wu
1 City Hall Square, 9th Floor 1 City Hall Plaza
Boston, MA 02201 Boston, MA 02201
James.Jemison@boston.gov mayor@boston.gov
City of Boston City of Boston
Public Library, Central Branch Public Library, East Boston Branch
Attn: Kristin Parker, Curator of Govt. Documents Attn: Margaret Kelly, Branch Librarian
700 Boylston Street 276 Meridian Street
Boston, MA 02116 East Boston, MA 02128
kparker@bpl.org mkelly@bpl.org
City of Boston City of Boston
Public Library, South End Branch Public Library, West End Branch
Attn: Christina Jones, Branch Librarian Attn: Lauren Lepanto, Branch Librarian
685 Tremont Street 151 Cambridge Street
Boston, MA 02118 Boston, MA 02114
cgones@bpl.org llepanto@bpl.org
fx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
City of Boston
City Council Main Office
Attn: Ed Flynn, Boston City Council President
1 City Hall Plaza, 5th Floor
Boston, MA 02201
City of Boston
Public Health Commission
Attn: Dr. Bisola Ojikutu
1010 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor
Boston, MA 02118
City Hall, Office of Mayor
Attn: Patrick M. Keefe Jr.
281 Broadway
Revere, MA 02151
ed.flynn@boston.gov info@bphc.org
City of Revere City of Revere
Office of Planning & Community Development
Attn: Tom Skwierawski, Chief of Planning and
Community Development
281 Broadway
Revere, MA 02151
Revere Public Library
Attn: Frank Schettino, Chair
179 Beach Street
Revere, MA 02151
rev@noblenet.org
City of Revere
Board of Health
Attn: Lauren Buck, Director, Department of Public
Health
249R Broadway
Revere, MA 02151
City of Revere
Conservation Commission
Office of Planning & Development
City Hall, 281 Broadway
Revere, MA 02151
concom@revere.org
City of Chelsea
Attn: Edward (Ned) Keefe, City Manager
City Hall, 500 Broadway
Chelsea, MA 02150
City of Revere
City Council Chamber, City Hall
Attn: Joanne McKenna, President
281 Broadway, Room 16
Revere, MA 02151
Chelsea Public Library
Attn: Robert Collins, Director
569 Broadway
Chelsea, MA 02150
City of Chelsea
Office of Planning & Development
Chelsea City Hall
Attn: Alexander Train, AICP
Chelsea, MA 02150
atrain@chelseama.gov
City of Chelsea
City Council, Chelsea City Hall
Attn: Leo Robinson, City Council President
500 Broadway, Room 306
Chelsea, MA 02150
lrobinson@chelseama.gov
City of Chelsea
Board of Health, Chelsea City Hall
Attn: Flor Amaya, Director of Public Health
500 Broadway
Chelsea, MA 02150
famaya@chelseama.gov
Town of Winthrop
Town Council, Winthrop Town Hall
Attn: James Letterie
1 Metcalf Square
Winthrop, MA 02152
jletterie@town.winthrop.ma.us
Gx Red Blue
TA CONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Town of Winthrop
Winthrop Town Hall
Attn: Tony Marino, Town Manager
1 Metcalf Square
Winthrop, MA 02152
amarino@town.winthrop.ma.us
Town of Winthrop
Conservation Commission
Winthrop Town Hall
Attn: Brian D. Corbett, Member
1 Metcalf Square
Winthrop, MA 02152
conservation@town.winthrop.ma.us
Winthrop Public Library
Attn: Greg McClay, Director
2 Metcalf Square
Winthrop, MA 02152
gamcclay@noblenet.org
City of Cambridge
Office of the Mayor, City Hall
Attn: Sumbul Siddiqui, Mayor of Cambridge
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
mayor@cambridgema.gov
Town of Winthrop
Planning Board, Winthrop Town Hall
Town Manager's Office
Attn: Christopher Boyce, Chair
1 Metcalf Square
Winthrop, MA 02152
PLANNINGBOARD@TOWN.WINTHROP.MA.US
City of Cambridge
Traffic, Parking & Transportation Dept.
Attn: Brooke McKenna, Transportation
Commissioner
238 Broadway
Cambridge, MA 02139
tpt@cambridgema.gov
City of Cambridge
Community Development Dept.
Attn: lram Farooq, Assistant City Manager of
Community Development
344 Broadway
Cambridge, MA 02139
ifaroog@cambridgema.gov
City of Cambridge
Transportation Dept.
Attn: Brooke McKenna, Transportation
Commissioner
344 Cambridge, MA 02139
tpt@cambridgema.gov
City of Cambridge
Public Library, Central Branch
Attn: Dr. Maria McCauley
449 Broadway
Cambridge, MA 02139
library@cambridgema.gov
Cambridge Historical Commission
Lombardi Building
Attn: Charles Sullivan
831 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor
Cambridge, MA 02139
City of Cambridge, City Council
Cambridge City Hall, 2nd Floor
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
CityCouncil@CambridgeMA.GOV
City of Cambridge
Public Library, East Cambridge Branch
Attn: Reference Desk
48 Sixth Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
library@cambridgema.gov
Gx Red Blue _ notice of Project Change Circulation List
TA CONNECTOR
City of Somerville
Somerville City Hall
Attn: Katjana Ballantyne, Mayor
93 Highland Avenue
Somerville, MA 02143
kballantyne@somervillema.gov
City of Cambridge
Public Health Department
Attn: Derrick Neal, Chief Public Health Officer
119 Windsor Street, Ground Level
Cambridge, MA 02139
dneal@challiance.org
City of Somerville
Traffic and Parking
Attn: Suzanne Rinfret
133 Holland Street
Somerville, MA 02144
SRinfret@somervillema.gov
Office of Mayor
Somerville City Hall
Attn: Lammis Vargas, Chief Administrative Officer
93 Highland Avenue
Somerville, MA 02144
lvargas@somervillema.gov
Somerville DPW
Attn: Jill Lathan
1 Franey Road
Somerville, MA 02143
jlathan@somervillema.gov
City of Somerville
Public Library, Central Branch
Attn: Cathy Piantigini
79 Highland Avenue
Somerville, MA 02143
cpiantigini@somervillema.gov
Bill White
City of Somerville Alderman
16 Browning Road
Somerville, MA 02145
Tom Taylor
City of Somerville Alderman
32 Vinal Avenue
Somerville, MA 02143
City of Somerville Office of Strategic Planning &
Community Development
Attn: Thomas Galligani
Somerville City Hall
93 Highland Avenue
Somerville, MA 02143
tgalligani@somervillema.gov
City of Somerville Health Department
City Hall Annex, Attn: Karin Caroll
50 Evergreen Avenue
Somerville, MA 02143
kcarroll@somervillema.gov
Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection — Northeast Regional Office
Attn: MEPA Reviewer
150 Presidential Way
Woburn, MA 01801
Elected Officials
City Office/Title Name Contact
Boston Chief of Staff to the Mayor Tiffany Chu tiffany.chu@boston.gov
Boston City Council President/Ward 2 Ed Flynn ed.flynn@boston.gov
Boston City Councilor at Large Michael Flaherty michael.f.flaherty@boston.gov
Boston City Councilor at Large Ruthzee Louijeune | ruthzee.louijeune@boston.gov
Boston City Councilor at Large Julia Mejia julia.mejia@boston.gov
fx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Boston City Councilor at Large Erin Murphy erin.murphy@boston.gov
Boston City Council Ward 1 Gabriela Coletta gabriela.coletta@boston.gov
Boston City Council Ward 3 Frank Baker frank.baker@boston.gov
Boston City Council Ward 4 Brian Worrell brian.worrell@boston.gov
Boston City Council Ward 5 Ricardo Arroyo ricardo.arroyo@boston.gov
Boston City Council Ward 6 Kendra Lara kendra.lara@boston.gov
Tania Fernandes
Boston City Council Ward 7 Anderson tania.anderson@boston.gov
Boston City Council Ward 8 VACANT
Boston City Council Ward 9 Liz Breadon liz.breadon@boston.gov
Boston Mass. House 1st Suffolk Adrian Madaro adrian.madaro@mahouse.gov
Boston Mass. House 2nd Suffolk Dan Ryan dan.ryan@mahouse.gov
Boston Mass. House 3rd Suffolk Aaron Michlewitz aaron.michlewitz@mahouse.gov
Boston Mass. House 4th Suffolk David Biele david.biele@mahouse.gov
Boston Mass. House 5th Suffolk Chris Worrell christopher.worrell@mahouse.gov
Boston Mass. House 6th Suffolk Russell Holmes russell.holmes@mahouse.gov
Boston Mass. House 7th Suffolk Chynah Tyler chynah.tyler@mahouse.gov
Boston Mass. House 8th Suffolk Jay Livingstone jay.livingstone@mahouse.gov
Brandy Fluker
Boston Mass. House 12th Suffolk Oakley brandy.flukeroakley@mahouse.gov
Boston Mass. House 13th Suffolk Dan Hunt daniel.hunt@mahouse.gov
Boston Mass. House 14th Suffolk Rob Consalvo rob.consalvo@mahouse.gov
Boston Mass. House 15th Suffolk Samantha Montano | samantha.montano@mahouse.gov
Boston Mass. Sen. Suffolk-Norfolk Mike Rush mike.rush@masenate.gov
Boston Mass. Sen. 1st Suffolk Nick Collins nick.collins@masenate.gov
Boston Mass. Sen. 2nd Suffolk Liz Miranda liz:miranda@masenate.gov
Boston/Revere Mass. Sen. 3rd Suffolk Lydia Edwards lydia.edwards@masenate.gov
Boston Mass. Sen. Suffolk-Middlesex Will Brownsberger _| will.brownsberger@masenate.gov
Boston/Cambridge | Mass. Sen. Middlesex-Suffolk Sal DiDomenico sal.didomenico@masenate.gov
Cambridge Mass. Sen. 2nd Middlesex Pat Jehlen patricia jehlen@masenate.gov
Cambridge Mass. House 25th Middlesex Marjorie Decker marjorie.decker@mahouse.gov
Cambridge Mass. House 26th Middlesex Mike Connolly mike.connolly@mahouse.gov
Cambridge City Council Burhan Azeem bazeem @cambridgema.gov
Cambridge City Council Dennis Carlone dcarlone@cambridgema.gov
Cambridge City Council Alanna Mallon amallon@cambridgema.gov
Cambridge City Council Marc McGovern mmcgovern@cambridgema.gov
Cambridge City Council Patricia Nolan pnolan@cambridgema.gov
Cambridge City Council E. Denise Simmons __| dsimmons@cambridgem.gov
Cambridge City Council Paul Toner ptoner@cambridgema.gov
Cambridge City Council Quinton Zondervan | gzondervan@cambridgema.gov
Revere Mass. House 16th Suffolk Jessica Giannino jessica.giannino@mahouse.gov
fx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Revere Mass. House 19th Suffolk Jeffrey Turco jeffrey. turco@mahouse.gov
Revere City Council President/Ward 1 Joanne McKenna jmckenna@revere.org
Revere City Council at Large Steve Morabito smorabito@revere.org
Revere City Council at Large Dan Rizzo drizzo@revere.org
Revere City Council at Large Anthony Zambuto | azambuto@revere.org
Revere City Council at Large Marc Silvestri msilvestri@revere.org
Revere City Council at Large Gerry Visconti gvisconti@revere.org
Revere City Council Ward 2 Ira Novoselsky inovoselsky@revere.org
Anthony
Revere City Council Ward 3 Cogliandro acogliandro@revere.org
Revere City Council Ward 4 VACANT
Revere City Council Ward 5 John Powers jpowers@revere.org
Revere City Council Ward 6 Richard Serino rserino@revere.org
Other Interested Parties
Kate Saunders, Senior Vice President
Conservation Law Foundation
62 Summer Street
Boston, MA 02110
Lee Auspitz
Davis Square Task Force
17 Chapel Street
Somerville, MA 02144
charlesrivertma@gmail.com
Charles River TMA
10 Roger Street
Cambridge, MA 02142
Rocco DiRico
Community Relations
Tufts University
14 Capen Street
Medford, MA 02155
The State Library of Massachusetts
State Librarian
State House, Room 55
Boston, MA 02133
State Transportation Library
10 Park Plaza, 2nd Floor
Boston, MA 02116
Attn: Librarian
Marianna Accomando
A Better City
14 Beacon Street, Suite 402
Boston, MA 02108
Back Bay Association
229 Berkeley Street, Suite 410
Boston, MA 02116
Beacon Hill Business Association
66 Charles Street #451
Boston, MA 02114
Joshua Leffler
Beacon Hill Civic Association
74 Joy Street
Boston, MA 02114
Michael Donovan
Boston University
One Sherburn Street, 9th Floor
Boston, MA 02215
Edwards O. Nilsson
262 Essex Street
Salem, MA 01970
Gx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Rebecca Bowie
cambridgeportna@gmail.com
Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association, Inc.
Leslie Greis
Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association, Inc.
131 Pleasant Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
Liberty Mutual Insurance Group
175 Berkeley Street
Boston, MA 02116
Harvard University
Public Affairs & Communication
114 Mount Auburn Street, 6‘ Floor
Cambridge, MA 02138
MASCO
375 Longwood Avenue
Boston, MA 02215
Maha Aslam
Livable Streets Alliance
70 Pacific Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
Marcela del Carmen, MD
Massachusetts General Hospital
55 Fruit Street, Bulfinch 240
Boston, MA 02114
Kelley Brown
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
77 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Elliott Laffer
Neighborhood Association of Back Bay
160 Commonwealth Avenue #L-8
Boston, MA 02116
Nancy Gertner
Neighborhood Association of Back Bay
160 Commonwealth Avenue #L-8
Boston, MA 02116
L. Joyce Hampers
Newbury Street League
361 Newbury Street, 5" Floor
Boston, MA 02115
David O. McCready
Mass General Brigham
1153 Centre Street
Boston, MA 02130
Sebastian Belfanti
West End Civic Association
P.O. Box 6503
Boston, MA 02114
Rich Badmington
Riverside Neighborhood Association
45 Hayes Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
Dan Fox
danfoxart @yahoo.com
Susan Benoit
West End Civic Association
8 Whittier Place #12F
Boston, MA 02115
Fred Salvucci
6 Leicester Street
Brighton, MA 02135
Downtown North Association
Attn: Jay Walsh
jay@downtownnorth.org
Walk Boston
45 School Street
Boston, MA 02108
fx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Statewide Environmental Justice Reference List
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
First
Name Last Name Affiliation Email
Yusuf Ali Boston Cares yali@bostoncares.org
Unitarian Universalist Mass
Claire B.W. Muller Action Network claire@uumassaction.org
Sara Arman Greenroots Chelsea saraa@greenrootschelsea.org
Roseann Bongiovanni | GreenRoots, Inc. roseannb@greenrootschelsea.org
Save the Harbor/Save the
Chris Mancini Bay mancini@savetheharbor.org
Save the Harbor/Save the
Kristen Barry Bay barry@savetheharbor.org
Monica Driggers Mass Rivers Alliance monicadriggers@massriversalliance.org
shelby.semmes@tpl.org;
Shelby Semmes The Trust for Public Land massachusetts @tpl.org
Kerry Bowie Browning the GreenSpace kerry@msaadapartners.com
Janet Domenitz Community Action Works info@communityactionworks.org
Liz Cook Boston Harbor Now lcook@bostonharbornow.org
Brooke Howard MAB Community Services bhoward@ivystreetschool.org
Viviana Catano Revere CARES vcatano-merino@partners.org
Chinese Progressive
Winki Chan Association winki@cpaboston.org
Chinese Progressive
lrene Jor Association irene@cpaboston.org
Chinese Progressive
Baolian Kuang Association baolian@cpaboston.org
Chinese Progressive
Carlton Sagara Association carlton@cpaboston.org
Sylvia Chiang Revere CARES srchiang@partners.org
Heather Clish Appalachian Mountain Club | hclish@outdoors.org
Massachusetts Council on
Betsy Connell Aging elizabeth@mcoaonline.com
Chappaquiddick Tribe of the
Wampanoag Nation, Whale
Patricia D. Rocker Clan rockerpatriciad @verizon.net
Massachusetts Commission
David D'Arcangelo _| for the Blind david.darcangelo@mass.gov
Massachusetts Senior Care
Denise DeSimone Association ddesimone@maseniorcare.org
Conservation Law
Seth Gadbois Foundation sgadbois@clf.org
Deb Fastino Coalition for Social Justice dfastino@aol.com
Herring Pond Wampanoag
Melissa Ferretti Tribe melissa@herringpondtribe.org
Gx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Boston Farms Community
Joy Gary Land Trust info@bostonfarms.org
Tomas Gonzalez Amplify Latinx tomas@amoplifylatinx.com
Adela Gonzalez GreenRoots adelag@greenrootschelsea.org
Camilo Auyero GreenRoots camiloa@greenrootschelsea.org
Environmental League of
Ellen Macaulay MA atemacaulay@environmentalleaque.org
Chappaquiddick Tribe of the
Alma Gordon Wampanoag Nation tribalcouncil@chappaquiddickwampanoag.org
Massachusetts Senior Care
Tara Gregorio Association tgregorio@maseniorcare.org
North American Indian
Raquel Halsey Center of Boston rhalsey@naicob.org
Sara Hamilton Boston Cares shamilton@bostoncares.org
Ben Hellerstein Environment Massachusetts | ben@environmentmassachusetts.org
Hinojos-
Monica Capes Amplify Latinx monica@amplifylatinx.com
Laura Jasinski Charles River Conservancy ljasinski@thecharles.org
Robb Johnson Mass Land Trust Coalition info@massland.org
Maverick Landing
Rita Lara Community Services rita@mavericklanding.org
Sarah Levy GreenRoots sarahl@greenrootschelsea.org
Chinatown Community Land
Lydia Lowe Trust lydia@chinatownclt.org
Asian Community
Christine Nguyen Development Corporation christine. nguyen@asiancdc.org
Cindy Luppi Clean Water Action cluppi@cleanwater.org
Chris Marchi Air, Inc. cbmarchi@gmail.com
Mass Community Labor
Lee Matsueda United info@massclu.org
Lena Entin Neighbor to Neighbor lena@n2nma.org
Miles Gresham Neighbor to Neighbor miles@n2nma.org
Czech and Slovak
Estera Mich Association Inc. esteramlch@hotmail.com
Czech and Slovak
Renata Dutton Association Inc. renata_dutton@yahoo.com
Charles River Watershed
Emily Norton ASSOC. enorton@crwa.org
New England United for
Noemi Mimi Ramos ___| Justice mimi.neunited4justice@gmail.com
Rob Moir Ocean River Institute rob@oceanriver.org
Massachusetts Association
Outwater- for the Blind and Visually
Sassy Wright Impaired soutwater@mabcommunity.org
fx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Vickash Mohanka Sierra Club MA vick.mohanka@sierraclub.org
Veena Dharmaraj Sierra Club MA veena.dharmaraj@sierraclub.org
Massachusetts Commission
John Peters, Jr. on Indian Affairs (MCIA) john.peters@mass.gov
Cora Pierce Pocasset Wampanoag Tribe | Coradot@yahoo.com
Mystic River Watershed
David Queeley Association david.queeley@mysticriver.org
Heidi Ricci Mass Audubon hricci@massaudubon.org
Eneida Roman Amplify Latinx eneida@amplifylatinx.com
Kathy Abbott Boston Harbor Now kabbott@bostonharbornow.org
Massachusetts Tribe at
Elizabeth | Soloman Ponkapoag Solomon.Elizabeth@qmail.com
Massachusetts Commission
for the Deaf and Hard of
Opeoluwa | Sotonwa Hearing opeoluwa.sotonwa@mass.gov
Stuart Spina GreenRoots stuartespina@gmail.com
Nipmuc Nation
Cheryll Toney Holley | (Hassanamisco Nipmucs) crwritings@aol.com
Gladys Vega Chelsea Collaborative gladysv@chelseacollab.org
Carolyn Villers Mass Senior Action Council | CVillers@MassSeniorAction.org
Wampanoag Tribe of Gay
Bettina Washington Head (Aquinnah) thoo@wampanoagtribe-nsn.gov
Brian Weeden Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe | Brian.Weeden@mwutribe-nsn.gov
Cambridge Food and Fitness
Dawn Olcott Policy Council dolcott@challiance.org
Chaubunagungamaug
Kenneth White Nipmuck Indian Council acw1213 @verizon.net
Mystic River Watershed
Julie Wormser Association julie. wormser@mysticriver.org
Mystic River Watershed
Daria Clark Association daria.clark@mvysticriver.org
Mystic River Watershed
Patrick Herron Association patrick.herron@mysticriver.org
Chinatown Resident
Hin Sang Yu Association chinatownresidents@gmail.com
Asian American Civic
Angie Liou Association angie.liou@asiancdc.org
Asian Community
Jeena Chang Development Corporation jeena.chang@asiancdc.org
Brazilian Workers Center info@braziliancenter.org
Chinatown Main Street
Program bostoncmsed@qmail.com
Chinatown Neighborhood
Council / Chinatown
Coalition sdong @tuftsmedicalcenter.org
fx) Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Chinatown Residents
Association
chinatown@gossage-industries.com
Chinese American Heritage
Foundation
cahf.us@gmail.com
Chinese Consolidated
Larry Young Benevolent Association larryyoung888@yahoo.com
Chinese Consolidated
Hung Goon Benevolent Association hung goon@yahoo.com
Chinese Consolidated
Paula Chan Benevolent Association paula1688@comcast.net
Chinese Consolidated
Susan Chu Benevolent Association ms.susan.chu@gmail.com
Community Action
Programs Inter-City
info@capicinc.org
Community Action
Programs Inter-City
rcromwell@capicinc.org
Dominican Development
Center
dominicandevelopmentcenter@qmail.com
English for New Bostonians
info@englishfornewbostonians.org
GreenRoots
youthpass@greenrootschelsea.org
Hispanic American Institute
byc@hainst.org
La Colaborativa
hola@la-colaborativa.org
Moroccan-American
Connections in Revere
info@macir.org
Neighborhood of Affordable
Housing (NOAH)
linda@noahcdc.org
Turkish Cultural Center
info@tccma.org
West End Community
Center
centernews@westendcommunitycenter.com
Cambridge Community
Center
info@cambridgecc.org
Local Community Organizations
First Name _ | Last Name Affiliation Email
Chelsea Housing
Albert Ewing Authority aewing@chelseaha.com
Boston Center for
Andy Forman Independent Living aforman@bostoncil.org
Boston Age Strong
Michael Killoran Commission agestrong@boston.gov
The Neighborhood
Ann Houston Developers ahouston@tndinc.org
Angela Johnson T4MA ajohnson@t4ma.org
Allison Paridaez allison@paridaez.com
Ashley Melnik City of Revere amelnik@revere.org
fx) Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Andrea Burns Age Strong Commission | andrea.burns@boston.gov
Anna Leslie ABHC anna.leslie@abhealthcollab.org
Alejandro Pineda Family First Life apinedalife@gmail.com
Ari Ofsevit ITDP ari.ofsevit@itdp.org
Athena Moulopoulos | The Liberty Hotel athena.moulopoulos@libertyhotel.com
Alexander | Train City of Chelsea atrain@chelseama.gov
Brian Arrigo City of Revere barrigo@revere.org
Cardet-
Brandon Hernandez MAB Community Services | bcardethernandez@ivystreetschool.org
Brandon Chase Mass General Hospital bchase7@partners.org
Paul Burke City of Boston BEDpublicinfo@boston.gov
Beacon Hill Real Estate,
Rande Mindick Cedar Block LLC bhre@bellatlantic.net
Boston Bikes bostonbikes@boston.gov
Brad Gerratt City of Boston bradley.gerratt@boston.gov
Brianna Millor City of Boston brianna.millor@boston.gov
Boys & Girls Clubs of
Boston bsnyder@bgcb.org; info@bgcb.org
Ben Stuart Boston Business Chamber | bstuart@bostonchamber.com
Chinese American
Heritage Foundation cahf.us@gmail.com
Caitlin Allen-Connelly | A Better City callen-connelly@abettercity.org
Association of Cambridge
Neighborhoods cambridgeneighborhoods@gmail.com
Carla Richards ABCD carla.richards@bostonabcd.org
Christopher | Bright City of Revere cbright@revere.org
Colleen Delaney Mass General Hospital cdelaney5 @partners.org
North End/Waterfront
Residents Association cdelgreco@comcast.net
Chris Dempsey T4MA cdempsey@t4ma.org
West End Community
Center centernews@westendcommunitycenter.com
Ciara D'Amico City of Boston ciara.damico@boston.gov
HarborArts connect @harborarts.org
Conor Newman City of Boston conor.newman@boston.gov
East Boston Chamber of
Commerce contact@eastbostonchamber.com
Cub Scout Pack 15
Revere cubmaster@pack15revere.org
East Boston Health
Center dearauje@ebnhc.org
East Boston Central
Duber Gutierrez Catholic School dgutierrez@ebccs.org
David Leonard Boston Public Library dleonard@bpl.org
fx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
East Boston YMCA
eastbostony@ymcaboston.org
Eastie Now! eastienow1@gmail.com
Gladys Oliveros East Boston Main Streets | ebmsgladyso@gmail.com
E.J. Brown The Liberty Hotel ej.brown @libertyhotel.com
Walnut Street
Synagogue/Congregation
Agudas Sholom ejmedros@gqmail.com
James Hooley Boston EMS emailems@bostonems.org
The Boston Living Center | emiller@vpi.org
Rev. White-
Mariama Hammond City of Boston environment@boston.gov
Eric Leslie Union Capital Boston eric.leslie@unioncapitalboston.com
Erin Kenney Nutrition Rewired, LLC erin@nutritionrewired.com
Revere Community
Fatou Drammeh School fdrammeh@reverek12.org
East Boston Ecumenical
Frank Ramirez Community Council framirez@ebecc.org
Gabriel Portillo Portillo Property Partners | gabriel@portillopropertypartners.com
Gaetan Kashala AIM gkashala@aimnet.org
Gladys Oliveros City of Boston gladys.oliveros@boston.gov
Chelsea Collaborative gladysv@chelseacollab.org
Gerry Visconti City of Revere gvisconti@revere.org
Boston Chinese
Helena Fong Evangelical Church helena.fong@bcec.net
Fathom Information
Design
hello@fathom.info
Chelsea Restoration Corp.
hzucco@chelsearestoration.org
A Better Cambridge
info@abettercambridge.org
BCNC
info@bcnc.net
Beacon Hill Civic
Association
info@bhcivic.org
Action for Boston
Community Development
info@bostonabcd.org
Boston TenPoint
Coalition
info@btpc.org
Cambridge Community
Center
info@cambridgecc.org
Cambridge Families of
Color Coalition
info@cambridgefamiliesofcolor.org
Chelsea Community
Connections Coalition
info@chelseaccc.org
Centro Presente
info@cpresente.org
Charles Street Liquors
info@csliquors.com
Crossroads Family Center
info@ebcrossroads.org
fx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Marston Beacon Hill info@marstonbeaconhill.com
NorthEndBoston.com info@northendboston.com
Neighbors United For A
Better East Boston info@nubeastboston.org
Robin's Nest Boutique &
Gift Shop info@robinsnestwinthrop.com
Women Encouraging
Empowerment info@weewomen.org
Beacon Hill Yoga info@yogabeaconhill.com
Boston Public Market information@bostonpublicmarket.org
Cambridge Highlands
Neighborhood
Association jatennis@comcast.net
YMCA International
Learning Center jbrothers@ymcaboston.org
Julie Burkley FriendshipWorks jburkley@fw4elders.org
Jeannette Cintron White | City of Chelsea jcintron@chelseama.gov
Jessica Ann | Giannino East Boston/Revere Jessica.Giannino@mahouse.gov
Imagination Station Early
Learning Center jessteixeira82@qmail.com
Alliance for Business
Jesse Mermell Leadership jmermell@alliancebl.org
John Kingston Federal Credit Union johnkingston4revere@qmail.com
Boston Center for
Independent Living (BCIL) | jpoodesva@bostoncil.org
John Quatieri City of Chelsea jquatieri@chelseama.gov
John Regan AIM jregan@aimnet.org
Julie Xhafaj European Wax Center juli.xhafaj@waxcenter.com
Julia Wallerce ITDP julia.wallerce@itdp.org
Downtown North
Association jwalsh1421@qmail.com
Kaira Fox City of Boston kaira.fox@boston.gov
Kara Elliott-Ortega__| City of Boston kara.elliott-ortega@boston.gov
Kate Davis City of Boston kate.davis@boston.gov
Kate Dineen A Better City kdineen@abettercity.org
Cambridge Residents
Alliance KeepCambridgeLivable@gmail.com
King & | ken@kingandlboston.com
Kristen Karshis & Co. Real
Kristen Karshis Estate kkarshis@kw.com
Boston Disability
Kristen McCosh Commission kristen.mccosh@boston.gov
Kristen Mansharamani | Torit Montessori School kristen@toritschool.org
Kristina McGeehan City of Boston kristina. mcqeehan@boston.gov
fx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Kyle Robidoux FriendshipWorks krobidoux@fw4elders.org
Leonard Albanese City of Chelsea lalbanese@chelseama.gov
Lourdes Alvarez City of Chelsea lalvarez@chelseama.gov
Laura Macris Crush Boutique laura@shopcrushboutique.com
Lisa Jacobson BARR ljacobson@barrfoundation.org
First Congregational
Church of Revere loralei@firstcongrevere.org
The East Boston
Foundation lorene@ebfoundation.com
Boston Arts & Antiques
Lou Desautels Co. lou_bos@yahoo.com
East
Lydia Edwards Boston/Revere/Winthrop | Lydia.Edwards@masenate.gov
Michaela Achey Harvard Gardens machey@harvardgardens.com
Malia Lazu The Urban Labs malia@theurbanlabs.com
New Urban Partners management@newurbanpartners.com
Transportation,
Resources, Information,
Planning & Partnership
Maria Foster for Seniors (TRIPPS) maria@trippsmass.org
The Boston Project maridena@tbpm.org
Kaelyn Mayfair On the Hill mayfaironthehill@hotmail.com
Michael Cecere City of Revere mcecere@revere.org
Institute of Human
Marion Decaillet Centered Design, Boston | mdecaillet@ihcdesign.org
Michael Morrison Mass General Hospital mdmorrison@partners.org
Mekhi Etheridge City of Boston mekhi.etheridge@boston.gov
Improve Business
Marta Flores Management mflores@improvebm.com
Finagle A Bagel mgh@finagleonline.com
Millicent Cutler Ouimillie millicent@ouimillie.com
Marissa Rivera A Better City mrivera@abettercity.org
Skelton
Mary Roberts Barr Foundation MSkeltonRoberts@barrfoundation.org
Michael Wells City of Revere mwells@revere.org
Natalia Urtubey City of Boston natalia.urtubey@boston.gov
Nathalia Benitez City of Boston nathalia.benitezperez@boston.gov
Noah Brown Mass General Hospital nbrown9 @partners.org
Alchemists neighbour@alchemists.community
North End/Waterfront
Neighborhood Council newncboston@gmail.com
Bike to the Sea news @biketothesea.org
Niles Welch Beantown Law Group LLC | nilesw@beantownlawgroup.com
fx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Association of Haitian
Women in Boston office@afab-kafanm.org
Oscar Desjardins Mass No Cost Solar oscar@massnocostsolar.com
Paul Argenzio City of Revere pargenzio@revere.org
Boy Scout Troop 15
Revere pat@troop15revere.org
People's A.M.E. Church peoplesame2012@gmail.com
Domenic Amara Pirandello Lyceum Inc. pirandellolyceum@aol.com
Patricia Lewis City of Chelsea plewis@chelseama.gov
Patricia Montes Centro Presente pmontes@cpresente.org
Agassiz Baldwin
Community psinclair@agassiz.org
City of Boston publicworks@boston.gov
East Boston Central
Robert Casaletto Catholic School rcasaletto@ebccs.org
Revere Community
School rcsrevere@gmail.com
Whitney + Winston rebecca@whitneyandwinston.com
Roosters Men's
Grooming Center reidyrodriguez1@qmail.com
REPS Fitness Studio repsbeaconhill@gmail.com
Revere Public Library rev@noblenet.org
Pat Lospenatto Santander Bank reverechamberpat@qmail.com
Revere Youth in Action revereyouthinaction@gmail.com
Revere Intersectional
Support for Education rise.studentsrhs@qmail.com
Maverick Landing
Rita Lara Community Services rita@mavericklanding.org
Buena Vista Social Club rryals@comcast.net
Revere Society for
Cultural and Historic
Preservation rschopmuseum@comcast.net
Cambridgeport
Neighborhood
Association rsrbowie@gmail.com
Rufus Jackson Faulk | City of Boston rufus.faulk@boston.gov
Ryan Wilson The Whitney Hotel ryan.wilson@hhmlp.com
Ryan Jaslow Mass Eye and Ear ryan jaslow@meei.harvard.edu
Salesian Boys & Girls
Club of East Boston salesianfrontdesk@qmail.com
Leo Sarkissian The Arc of Massachusetts | sarkissian@arcmass.org
Generations Inc. scammarata@generationsinc.or
Chinese Consolidated
Felix Lui Benevolent Association felixkflui@gmail.com
fx Red Blue
TACONNECTOR
Notice of Project Change Circulation List
Public Library of the City
Sarah Gay Jackson of Chelsea sgay@chelseama.gov
Scott-
Sharon Chandler ABCD sharon.scottchandler@bostonabcd.org
East Boston Area ; F
Shirley Fajardo Planning Action Council eyes a ee pea
Aimee French + Italian shop@Frenchltalian.com
Shumeane_| Benford City of Boston shumeane.benford@boston.gov
Sarah Lee Kurpiel MAPC SKurpiel@mapc.org
Sarah Lee MAPC - Transportation slee@mapc.org
City Life/Vida Urbana smeacham@clvu.org
Cambridge Council on
Susan Pacheco Aging spacheco@cambridgema.gov
Stacy Thompson Livable Streets stacy@livablestreets.info
Steve Williams North Shore Road LLC steve@rentatool.com
The UPS Store store5768@theupsstore.com
Tom Ambrosino City of Chelsea tambrosino@chelseama.gov
Temple Emmanuel templeemmanuelchelsea@verizon.net
Tracy Nowicki City of Chelsea tnowicki@chelseama.gov
Top Shelf topshelfboston@gqmail.com
Tony Portillo Stars Branding tportillo@starsbranding.com
Tegin Teich Cambridge tteich@cambridgema.gov
Beacon Hill Cleaners tuyetnva0910@qmail.com
West End Civic
Association weca.boston@gmail.com
Whitney Denehy SoulCycle - Beacon Hill whitney.denehy@soul-cycle.com
Winston Pierre City of Boston winston.pierre@boston.gov
Just-A-Start YouthBuild
Program youthbuild@justastart.org
Andrew Reker Cambridge areker@cambridgema.gov
fx Red Blue Notice of Project Change Circulation List
TACONNECTOR
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
MBTA Red Blue Connector Project Notice of Project Change
ATTACHMENT 5: Public Outreach
Public Involvement Plan
Gl Red Blue Public Involvement Plan
TACONNECTOR
Introduction
1 PROJECT BACKGROUND AND NEED
The Red Blue Connector project (the “Project’) is an initiative of the Massachusetts Bay
Transportation Authority (MBTA) to improve the transit connection between the Red and Blue
lines. Under the Project, the Blue Line would be extended approximately 2,150 feet beyond its
current terminus at Bowdoin Station, below Cambridge Street in Downtown Boston, to the
Charles/Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Station, where it would connect directly to the
Red Line. Bowdoin Station would be permanently closed, and Blue Line trains would travel directly
from Government Center to Charles/MGH Station. In addition to the direct Red Line connection,
an entrance within the new MGH Clinical Building between North Grove Street and Blossom
Street is proposed to provide access to the MGH campus. Enhancing mobility between these two
lines would also improve access for residents of East Boston and the North Shore, as well as
residents of Cambridge and other communities northwest of Boston. This Project would also
improve access to Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) and other nearby medical
facilities, and would improve system capacity, increase transit ridership, and extend accessibility.
The purpose of the Red Blue Connector project is to improve mobility and access to jobs and
health care for residents of East Boston, Revere, Winthrop, and Chelsea. Implementing the Red
Blue Connector would likely:
e Improve mobility and regional access, especially for residents of East Boston and the North
Shore, benefiting both environmental justice and non-environmental justice populations;
e Increase transit ridership by eliminating the need to make an intermediate transfer on the
Orange or Green lines;
e Extend accessibility by replacing the inaccessible Bowdoin station with a fully accessible new
BL station at Charles/MGH; and
e Improve system capacity by reducing congestion in downtown transfer stations.
2 PROJECT HISTORY
A state Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) and conceptual engineering for the Red Blue
Connector were completed in 2010. The DEIR included a baseline study of existing conditions
in the corridor, development and refinement of alternatives, and an evaluation of impacts and
potential mitigation measures. The MBTA looked at two potential alternatives: a new and
somewhat relocated Bowdoin Station or eliminating a station at Bowdoin altogether. The report
included a recommended design and tunnel construction methodology. Including a public
process, the plan secured a Secretary's Certificate on the project indicating compliance with the
Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA).
=) Red Blue Public Involvement Plan
f me
CONNECTOR
Following the DEIR, work continued on the project through a series of studies and reports,
including:
e 2018 Tunnel Constructability Study, to update the 2010 DEIR, looked at construction
options and recommended a cut and cover approach as the most efficient. The study
updated ridership and continued to provide information through MBTA Board
presentations and the project website.
e 2021 Concept Design Report updated the station and tunnel design concepts, adding a
second station entrance within the new MGH Clinical Building, which is currently under
construction. The plan added redundant elevators and escalators. Information continued
to be shared on the project website, with MBTA contact information for public inquiries.
* 2022 Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Review, the current project. The
MBTA’s goal is to complete the state MEPA and federal National Environmental Policy
Act (NEPA) requirements. The plan includes robust stakeholder coordination with a wide
variety of stakeholders: MBTA riders, abutters, MGH, Mass Eye and Ear, the MBTA’s
Longfellow Viaduct project, utilities, City of Boston, and Blue Line communities.
Outreach includes new strategies for reaching out to EJ community stakeholders. The
MBTA is also running the travel demand model to update project ridership and impacts.
The project area is shown below, between the Blue Line Bowdoin station and Red Line
Charles/MGH station.
“Os AN
r Project Location|
Gx) Red Blue Public Involvement Plan
TACONNECTOR
3 OUTREACH GOALS AND STRATEGIES
The MBTA is committed to implementing a robust public involvement and outreach program that
is inclusive and welcomes and maximizes participation from communities, riders and abutters.
The stakeholder outreach will focus on making connections, engaging communities and
listening to their concerns and ideas. The Red Blue team will invite MBTA riders, EJ
communities, business leaders, abutters, and community stakeholders to participate in project
meetings and conversations.
Identifying Stakeholders
The first task of outreach is identifying stakeholders who have an interest in the project. This
effort, well underway, will identify and welcome:
Abutters, business owners affected by construction, and sensitive receptors in the
neighborhood
Local, state and congressional officials; federal, state and local environmental officials
Bike and pedestrian groups
Transportation and advocacy groups
Educational institutions
EJ, Title VI groups, low-income, English isolation or Limited English Proficiency (LEP)
stakeholders
Senior Centers and Councils on Aging
Agencies and organizations related to accessibility
Individuals who request to be added to the database
Targeted community groups, particularly in East Boston, Revere and Beacon Hill
Community based-organizations, federal Tribes, and Indigenous organizations identified
in the EJ Reference List
Blue Line and Red Line customers
Coordination with major institutions, such as Mass General and Mass Eye and Ear,
hotels and restaurants, businesses along Cambridge Street, tourism and major
employers
Making Connections
The second goal of outreach is to make connections, listen to and learn from those connections,
and address their concerns, challenges and opportunities. To do so, our program will include:
Clear and targeted materials that support a project website and describe in plain
language the project and opportunities to learn about it; materials will be shared in
briefings, public meetings and through email
Language access services for LEP stakeholders identified by Census data and upon
request
Briefings for community groups, businesses, abutters and transportation organizations to
provide information and address questions
Compliance with updated EJ outreach guidelines, including filing the EJ form, and
researching and reaching out to EJ populations within and near the project area
fx Red Blue Public Involvement Plan
TACONNECTOR
Support for public meetings, open houses and other strategies during the environmental
process to ensure that stakeholders can participate in project review and have timely
access to information'
Scheduling meetings at convenient times and using a variety of times and locations, for
example, after work hours; at local and regional events; at community organization
meetings
Media outreach that begins during design and permitting and continues through
construction
Preparation for construction, which will bring together the multiple interests and problem
solvers who will have a role in the challenges of construction: the MBTA, project team,
City of Boston departments, public safety, utilities, businesses on Cambridge Street,
MGH and MEEI and residential abutters. Anticipating the impacts of construction and
sharing that information widely with the public so they can be avoided respects
stakeholders and eases the burden on the construction process as well
Listening and Responding
The third goal of outreach is to listen and respond. We will use multiple tools to involve
stakeholders so they can participate in design development. Our team will support a robust
website and project database and project informational materials. We will develop a calendar of
email blasts and information that support a two-way conversation, including:
Tracking stakeholders and issues in a database; developing a schedule of informational
materials distribution and sending responses both directly and through development of
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) handout. The outreach team will draft responses to
questions received through the website and project email. Commonly asked questions
will be added to the FAQ as the work advances
Reaching out to community groups, providing materials in appropriate languages and
formats and ensuring that all stakeholders are connected to the information they need to
ask questions and make comments
Complying with the requirements and spirit of the Massachusetts Executive Office of
Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Environmental Justice Policy that is designed
to promote community engagement early in the process of environmental decision
making
In all of the outreach efforts undertaken for the project, our goals are to be:
Inclusive — offering full and fair participation to all potentially affected and interested
constituencies
Targeted — providing a variety of opportunities for abutters, residents, and other
stakeholders, including language and culturally appropriate, attractive materials;
meetings held in accessible locations
' Currently, the MBTA is using a combination of virtual and in-person meetings and briefings. The format
is discussed with the stakeholders to ensure a level of comfort and access. Virtual meetings are typically
recorded and posted on a project website.
Gx Red Blue Public Involvement Plan
TACONNECTOR
e Effective — tracking all outreach activities in a spreadsheet; providing summary notes
and key issues lists; responding to inquiries (with MBTA review); using closed captioning
and interpreters for meetings and events; drafting and translating meeting notices and
presentations (as requested); and using eblasts, flyers and other materials to invite
stakeholders to events and meetings
¢ Cooperative — working closely with MBTA staff and with other projects whose issues
overlap with this project
The Red Blue team will coordinate among the various MBTA departments and all stakeholders
identified by the MBTA, including, but not limited to, the City of Boston, East Boston and Revere
officials, Federal Transit Administration, MassDOT, DCR, and DCAMM and sensitive receptors
in the project area (e.g., fire station, trauma center, library and other sites to be identified).
The MBTA will develop attractive branding and messaging around key issues that will be of
primary interest during the initial design process, leading to permitting, final design and
construction. This information will be based on clarity and transparency.
e Clarity about project elements and their benefits
e Transparency about project goals, plans and impacts with all stakeholders
e Once construction begins, to present information about potential construction impacts
(such as dust, vibration, rodents/pests, noise, truck traffic and noise) and related
mitigation strategies
e Present strategies to mitigate construction impacts, where required, such as air and
noise emission reduction on equipment; pest control; and traffic management plans and
related mitigation strategies
Station rendering from the Updated Concept Design Report
Gx Red Blue Public Involvement Plan
MACONNECTOR
4 ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE (EJ), TITLE VI AND OTHER DEMOGRAPHICS
In 2002 the Massachusetts EEA developed a policy of Environmental Justice (EJ) to better
serve the environmental needs of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable residents. The policy
addresses the disproportionate environmental burdens experienced by low-income persons,
minority communities, and those not speaking English well or not at all. In addition to ensuring
protection against environmental pollution, the policy promotes community engagement in
environmental decision-making processes. The policy protocols date from January 2022.2
Quoting the policy:
Environmental justice is based on the principle that all people have a right to be
protected from environmental hazards and to live in and enjoy a clean and healthful
environment regardless of race, color, national origin, income, or English language
proficiency. Environmental justice is the equal protection and meaningful involvement of
all people and communities with respect to the development, implementation, and
enforcement of energy, climate change, and environmental laws, regulations, and
policies and the equitable distribution of energy and environmental benefits and burdens.
Massachusetts defines Environmental Justice populations as neighborhoods that meet one or
more of the following criteriaz:
e The annual median household income is not more than 65 percent of the statewide
annual median household income
e Minorities comprise 40 percent or more of the population
e 25 percent or more of households lack English language proficiency
e Minorities comprise 25 percent or more of the population and the annual median
household income of the municipality in which the neighborhood is located does not
exceed 150 percent of the statewide annual median household income
The project team prepared the Environmental Justice Form for circulation to EJ groups in and
near the project area. A Project Summary will also be available. Based on MEPA’s EJ map, the
EJ Form and Project Summary will be translated into Chinese, Haitian Creole, Spanish and
Portuguese and an Indic language (see the map in Appendix A for the map and comments).
The form will be provided to all of the groups listed in NPC Attachment 4 and posted on the
project website.
The MBTA will respond to requests for briefings, presentations or input opportunities that result
from circulation of the EJ Form and/or Project Summary. The Eu list will continue to be part of
the email and outreach efforts throughout the project and the list will be updated as new
information becomes available.
? The full policy is available at https://www.mass.gov/doc/environmental-justice-policy624202 |-update/download.
Gx) Red Blue Public Involvement Plan
TACONNECTOR
As the project advances, key materials, meeting announcements and flyers will be translated
into the named languages, with other services available on request. Virtual and in-person
meetings will include closed captioning, where appropriate, as well as interpreters, for Spanish
and Chinese speakers; and other languages as requested.
5 OUTREACH PROGRAM ELEMENTS
Multiple strategies and tools for communicating information and gathering input will broaden the
reach of this project and offer community members ways to participate at times and in locations
that are convenient. The outreach program is designed to meet the particular needs and
expectations of the public and stakeholder groups affected by the project.
The outreach program will be consistent with the MBTA’s Public Participation Plan, and use
Engage, MassDOT’s mapping tool for outreach, and the Environmental Justice map and
information to guide the public participation process. All public materials produced for the public,
including those posted to the project website, will be in an accessible format consistent with
MBTA guidelines to the extent possible.
PROJECT COMMUNICATION TOOLS
Branding
e Develop a logo for use on all project materials.
e Develop a header to be used on all email communications in conjunction with
GovDelivery, the email platform used for MassDOT and MBTA projects.
e Gather project photos and graphics that will be used for the background image, flyers
and other information on the project website.
Project Email Account
e Employ a project email account that will be the primary contact for all project questions
and comments in conjunction with GovDelivery.
e Provide a sign-up link for email as part of every communication and meeting.
e Implement a process to monitor the inbox and respond to email inquiries.
e Post the email address on the project website and other materials.
Project Website
e Continue to develop material for the MBTA project website with a project overview,
design elements and considerations, construction schedule, construction impacts and
mitigation, relevant project documents and materials, as well as links to sign up for
project email updates.
e Update the project website with announcements regarding service changes, information
about upcoming meetings and events, and meeting and post-meeting materials.
Press
e Draft media advisories about the project for MBTA public affairs to distribute to
broadcast, online and print media outlets.
fx Red Blue Public Involvement Plan
MACONNECTOR
Contacts Database
e Create a project database with contact information for relevant and interested
stakeholders.
e Collect and enter into the database contact information from meetings, briefings,
website, and email communications.
Email Blasts (including service announcements through T-alerts)
e Provide email updates to the project mailing list based on client approval, including
notification of upcoming meetings or briefings or project website updates.
Social Media
e Post project content on the MBTA social media sites, including Facebook, Twitter, Blog,
YouTube, and Flickr, as directed by the MBTA.
Briefings/Events
The team will support the organizing, staffing and summarizing a variety of virtual participation
tools, including Zoom, the MBTA’s preferred media for virtual briefings, meetings, and open
houses. The MBTA will provide instruction materials and arrange closed captioning, language
interpretation and breakout sessions, as needed. Meeting formats will include virtual; in person;
open houses; briefings for specific groups, such as:
Legislative and Mayoral/City Council Briefings
e Conduct briefings for chief elected officials and municipal officials and local
Representatives and Senators in advance of key milestones to provide timely notice and
follow-up when there are questions and concerns.
Community Meetings
e Organize, set up, staff and summarize public meetings for key milestones (virtual or in-
person).
e Reach out to local community and business groups, abutters and stakeholders to
publicize these meetings to their members employing the project database and other
outreach strategies; notify the entire database public meetings and open houses.
e Provide meeting presentations, recordings and informational materials on the project to
the MBTA website team for posting in the approved format.
Tracking
Tracking is important for any outreach program to help staff maintain records of incoming
information (comments and questions received from the public) and outward-facing activities
(events, meetings, e-blasts, etc.).
e Maintain a comment log for the project. Capture and track key issues discussed at
briefings, events, community meetings, as well as submitted online and via email, in this
issues log.
e Maintain an outreach log including logging any direct outreach to stakeholders, all
meetings, events, e-blasts, etc., for the project.
e Maintain a log listing questions, issues and requests for meetings or information
resulting from the Environmental Justice outreach and identify continuing outreach and
communication.
fx Red Blue Public Involvement Plan
TACONNECTOR
Print Materials*
Flyers
e Flyers will help the MBTA spread the word about upcoming public meetings. They will
include all information about the meeting so that someone without internet access would
have sufficient information to attend the public meeting.
e Similar to fact sheets, flyers should be posted to the project website and distributed at
key community locations in advance of public meeting dates and other key milestones.
e Flyers will be available in appropriate languages.
Marketing and Advertisements
Newspaper Display Ads
e Public meeting information will be published in media outlets serving the region and in
publications.
3 Print materials are more likely to be provided when in-person events resume.
Gl Red Blue Public Involvement Plan
TACONNECTOR
6 APPENDIX A: LANGUAGE ACCESS AND EJ CONSIDERATIONS
a
Language access information was provided by examining mapping and data from the
Massachusetts EEA, as well as data from both the American Community Survey (ACS) and
Department of Early and Secondary Education (DESE). Within the 1-mile radius there are
languages spoken by 5% of the population or more for Haitian Creole, Spanish, Portuguese,
Chinese, and Other Indic.
The two languages above or nearly at 10% for the in-house translation interpreters are: Spanish
(10.5%), and Chinese (9.8%). The project will provide these languages through on-site
interpreters during MBTA-hosted public meetings.
The MBTA will tailor outreach to the needs of this specific project; preparing materials that are
accessible and comply with federal and state standards; meet the standards of MEPA’s
Environmental Justice policy; and organize meetings and events that meet MassDOT’s Office of
Diversity and Civil Rights (ODCR) Public Participation Plan, Language Access Plan and
Accessible Meeting Policy, and Engage tool.
10