BART opens new downtown Berkeley plaza

Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) has opened a new $13 million plaza above its station in downtown Berkeley, California.

The structure features a new main entrance with a glass floor that illuminates from below at night and allows natural light into the station, agency officials said in a press release.

The structure is designed to improve pedestrian safety and walkability with LED lighting, granite aggregate pavers with neutral color tones, public art and landscaping. In addition, all on-site stormwater will be treated through bio-retention planters and landscaping.

"The plaza exemplifies our efforts to ensure BART stations serve as integral parts of the communities we serve," said BART Director Rebecca Saltzman.

The project was funded through California's State Prop 1B and local area grants, including Measure F. The project was delivered within budget, BART officials said.