Bowman provided accessibility assessments and design services for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to improve ADA compliance and pedestrian safety at bus stops throughout the system. The project included desktop evaluations and field audits of priority bus stops based on ridership, proximity to key destinations and identified accessibility deficiencies.
The team developed preliminary designs for accessibility improvements at 50 priority bus stops across nine municipalities and completed final designs for 25 locations. Improvements included sidewalk reconstruction, new and upgraded curb ramps, curb extensions, bus shelters and accessibility enhancements at approximately 40 additional bus stops identified through the MBTA’s Plan for Accessible Transit Infrastructure (PATI).
Pedestrian safety improvements included crosswalks, pedestrian signals, warrant analyses for HAWK signals, rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs) and edge lit flashing LED signs. Environmental permitting and historical reviews were completed as required.
The project also included a systemwide bus stop sign replacement program to address missing, faded and outdated signage, as well as bus stop extensions to improve accessibility and operations. Design and permitting efforts required coordination with MassDOT, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (MAAB) and other project stakeholders.