MBTA Seeking ‘Letters of Interest’ from Potential Service Providers for Green Line Extension

– Allison Goldsberry

The MBTA is seeking letters of interest from firms that may be interested in providing services for the next phase of the Green Line Extension project, according to a recent newsletter from the state Department of Transportation (MassDOT).

“This step initiates the process for engaging potential bidders in the design and construction industry in the next phase of the project…and anticipates inviting firms capable of leading Design Build teams to accomplish the work,” said MassDOT.

The MBTA is holding a forum on November 16 at the state transportation building in Boston to inform interested firms about the scope of the project, which includes seven new stations and a relocated Lechmere Station in Cambridge.

The Green Line Extension “still hinges on the release of $1 billion in funds pledged by the federal government,” which did earlier in the year express provisional support.

The City of Cambridge has kicked in $25 million, and the state is in the process of finalizing a $50 million contribution from Somerville.

The project has been under review for the past several months to determine cost-saving measures following the threat of a $1 billion cost over-run.

On August 8, the MBTA’s Fiscal and Management Control Board authorized the MBTA to proceed with the next phase of the Green Line Extension project, which includes the development of procurement documents for the selection of a new construction team.