MBTA opens new rail stations along Boston's Fairmount commuter line

Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick joined Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), state transportation and city officials earlier this week to mark the opening of three new stations and other recent improvements along the Fairmont Commuter Rail Line.

The officials celebrated the openings of the Four Corners, Talbot Avenue and New Market stations. Construction on a fourth station, Blue Hill, is expected to begin on the Fairmount Line later this summer.

The new stations represent the culmination of years of work between city, state and federal agencies, community activists and development organizations to improve public transportation in the neighborhoods of Dorchester, Roxbury and Mattapan, MBTA officials announced in a press release.

MBTA's existing infrastructure is undergoing other maintenance and upgrades necessary to keep the system operating safely and reliably, officials said. State-of-good repair spending is approaching nearly $600 million per year. In 2011 and 2012, MBTA experienced unprecedented ridership growth.

"I am proud of the tremendous progress we have made in improving the Fairmount Line, but there is more to do to give our residents the 21st century transportation system they deserve," Patrick said. "We will continue the fight for reliable roads and bridges, and an efficient and affordable public transportation system."

Also joining the governor were Boston Mayor Thomas Menino, MBTA General Manager Beverly Scott and Massachusetts Department of Transportation Secretary and Chief Executive Officer Richard Davey.

"The improvement of service and addition of stations along the commuter rail's only line exclusively serving the city of Boston will bring opportunities for economic development for the residents and neighborhoods of this great city," said Davey.