Ensure that the new Union Square Station of the Green Line Extension is fully accessible

The Issue

We Are Able and Union United are fighting to ensure the accessibility of the new Union Square Green Line Station. 

Recently, Governor Charlie Baker and the program manager for the MBTA Green Line Extension John Dalton decided to eliminate elevators from the station design, making it inaccessible to those with physical disabilities. The original design for the station included two elevators, stairs, escalators, and a ramp, however, now potential riders will need to traverse a bridge whose slope does not meet ADA minimum guidelines. 

This decision will not only affect people with disabilities, but also the City of Somerville. The lack of accessibility will inevitably discourage transit usage which, in turn, will reduce tax revenue that is necessary for the City to accomplish its long-term goals for development. Furthermore, the City of Somerville's designated master developer for Union Square, US2, would benefit from the re-inclusion of an elevator, as they have future plans to develop even more land on the side of the tracks with reduced accessibility.

With the station design nearly 50% complete, it is imperative we take a stand to ensure that the new Union Square Station of the Green Line Expansion is fully accessible to the public.

The time for action is now. Please sign and share our petition, as we act in solidarity with all residents, especially those with disabilities, who will be greatly impacted by this decision. 

This petition had 255 supporters

The Issue

We Are Able and Union United are fighting to ensure the accessibility of the new Union Square Green Line Station. 

Recently, Governor Charlie Baker and the program manager for the MBTA Green Line Extension John Dalton decided to eliminate elevators from the station design, making it inaccessible to those with physical disabilities. The original design for the station included two elevators, stairs, escalators, and a ramp, however, now potential riders will need to traverse a bridge whose slope does not meet ADA minimum guidelines. 

This decision will not only affect people with disabilities, but also the City of Somerville. The lack of accessibility will inevitably discourage transit usage which, in turn, will reduce tax revenue that is necessary for the City to accomplish its long-term goals for development. Furthermore, the City of Somerville's designated master developer for Union Square, US2, would benefit from the re-inclusion of an elevator, as they have future plans to develop even more land on the side of the tracks with reduced accessibility.

With the station design nearly 50% complete, it is imperative we take a stand to ensure that the new Union Square Station of the Green Line Expansion is fully accessible to the public.

The time for action is now. Please sign and share our petition, as we act in solidarity with all residents, especially those with disabilities, who will be greatly impacted by this decision. 

The Decision Makers

Denise Provost
Former State House of Representatives - Massachusetts-86
Patricia Jehlen
Massachusetts State Senate - Second Middlesex District (District 27)
Mike Connolly
Massachusetts House of Representatives - 26th Middlesex District
Charlie Baker
Governor of Massachusetts
John Dalton
John Dalton
Program Manager for the MBTA Green Line Extension

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Petition created on April 2, 2019