The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is seeking letters of interest from firms that may want to provide design build services for the Green Line Extension (GLX) project, initiating the process for engaging potential bidders. The MBTA will host a forum on November 16 to discuss the current scope of the project, and anticipates inviting firms capable of leading Design Build teams to accomplish the work.
The project includes the design and construction of two branches that will serve as an extension to the Green Line. The first is a "mainline" branch that will operate within the existing right-of-way of the Lowell Line, beginning just south of a relocated Lechmere Station in Cambridge and traveling north to Medford. The second is a branch line operating within the existing right-of-way of the Fitchburg Line to Union Square in Somerville.
The GLX will also include seven new stations constructed as part of the project, associated electrical and signal systems, as well as a vehicle storage and maintenance facility.
A Memorandum of Understanding was accepted between Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the City of Cambridge for the city to contribute $25 million to fund elements of the Green Line Extension project within the city of Cambridge. MassDOT is working with the City of Somerville to advance a similar MOU to account for the pledged $50 million contribution from Somerville.
The project still hinges on the release of $1 billion in funds pledged by the federal government. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) earlier this year expressed support for the work performed to date by the Interim Project Management Team. In a letter to MassDOT Secretary Stephanie Pollack, FTA Regional Administrator Mary Beth Mello wrote the "IPMT has made every effort to redesign the project in ways that preserve its most essential transportation benefits, consistent with your fiscal constraints."
The FTA calls the MBTA's cost estimates “complete, well documented,” the project scope “consistent with the scope of work set forth in the Full Funding Grant Agreement”, and the project schedule “mechanically sound.”