March 21, 2021 (BOSTON, MA) – The MBTA officially opened the first branch of the Green Line extension to Union Square in Somerville today. An agreement between Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) and state officials in the early 1990s led to the promise of a Green Line extension to mitigate emissions from the Big Dig highway expansions. CLF released the following statement in light of today’s news.
“It’s hard to overstate how significant and historic this day is,” said Bradley Campbell, President of CLF. “The long-delayed Green Line extension will finally unlock transportation access for thousands of people who previously had few options to get to work, school, or necessary appointments. While we celebrate today, it’s important to note that the work isn’t done, and we’ll continue to push for environmental review of the extension of the Medford branch to Route 16.”
An agreement forged in 1990 between CLF and state officials resulted in a host of promised transportation improvements to offset increased emissions from the Big Dig. Besides the Green Line extension, CLF pushed for expanded high occupancy vehicle lanes, significantly expanded Commuter Rail service, a connection between the Red and Blue subway lines, and the creation of the Silver Line. CLF eagerly awaits the opening of the Green Line extension to Medford at College Avenue later this year.
CLF experts are available for further comment.
###