To protect the nation’s oldest subway system from increasingly severe climate impacts, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) launched a comprehensive resilience initiative. One of its highest‑priority vulnerabilities was the Fenway portal, where the Green Line dips below grade and sits adjacent to the Muddy River – leaving it prone to flooding during major storm events. After helping MBTA secure a $28.8 million Federal Transit Administration grant, STV was selected to design both immediate and long‑term flood protection measures for Fenway Station and the nearby subway portal.
What challenges did STV address?
The Fenway portal has experienced repeated inundation due to its proximity to the Muddy River and low‑lying topography. MBTA needed a solution that combined engineering durability with minimal operational disruption. Challenges included complex hydrologic conditions, constrained urban infrastructure, identifying the right combination of physical barriers and pumping solutions and integrating new protective systems into an active light‑rail environment.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV conducted detailed floodplain analyses, site surveys and facility inspections to understand vulnerabilities and design tailored protection strategies. The team evaluated national best practices, gathered insights from industry experts and developed a range of flood‑mitigation concepts. The final design includes new floodgates, reinforced steel doors, and an updated pump station to manage and expel stormwater during extreme weather. These improvements ensure the portal can be fully sealed and protected during major flooding.
How does this project benefit the region?
The upgrades safeguard a critical segment of Boston’s transit network, helping ensure reliability for thousands of daily riders. By reducing flood risk and protecting essential infrastructure, the project supports long‑term system resilience and preserves the operational integrity of one of the most historic subway systems in the United States.
Key stats and accolades
- $28.8M FTA grant secured
- New floodgates and steel flood doors
- Upgraded pump station for high‑volume stormwater removal
- Supports MBTA’s systemwide climate resilience program
