Government Center 'T' stop could close for 3 years

BOSTON -- A proposal for MBTA repairs could close the Government Center ‘T’ Station for nearly three years.

“I'm all in favor them transforming this whole Government Center area,” said Stephen Cote, commuter.

The plans for a new glass enclosure would definitely transform the aesthetics of this popular stop for the Blue Line and Green line, and the addition of elevators would make it more accessible. Few argue the need - it's the timetable that's stopping folks in their tracks.

“I don't think it should take three years to do it,” said Bettina Norton, commuter.

And to finish in three years, the MBTA says it would have to completely close the Government Center stop starting November 2012. To keep it partially open would mean a four year timetable and an extra $16 million.

“Three year complete shutdown. Get it done quickly,” said a man.

“I think it probably would be better to extend the time and keep it partially open than it would be to close it,” said Norton. “Unless the other option is to keep Bowdoin Street open more.”

That option is on the table, but even before either plan takes off, commuters are already adjusting their routes and thinking about those who can't.

“I would actually be fine walking the extra quarter mile to go to Park Street,” said Cote. “But I’m also young and able to do it. I don’t think that affects everyone equally.”

“I would just go a different way to work probably,” said Ryan Curella, MBTA rider. “Take the Orange Line in or walk over to State Street.”

One of the reasons it would cost more to keep the station partially opened is because they would have to build a temporary entrance and then demolish it once they reopen it.

One the three year plan it would open in the summer of 2015, and on the four year plan it would open fall of 2016.

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