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Officials of Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) broke ground Nov. 1 on a $4 million rapid transit station, the planned centerpiece of EcoVillage, described as an ecologically friendly urban village in the city’s center and funded by Environmental Protection Agency.

The existing West 65th Street station consists of a pedestrian bridge spanning the tracks, a wooden platform and steel stairs from the platform to Madison Avenue.

The new station, visible from Lorain Avenue, is designed to resemble a house with a roof matching St. Coleman’s Church, a neighborhood icon. An entry pavilion would lead to the 1,200-foot passenger station, plans for which include a ticket booth, fare gates and a concession area.

EcoVillage planners anticipate the station would act as a catalyst for new retail outlets, affordable housing and senior-living developments. Townhouses and St. Coleman’s senior living facility already plan to be part of EcoVillage, and negotiations continue to include a small post office.

Four buildings near the station face demolition by mid-November; station completion is planned for April 2002.