The state plans to invest $402 million in building new and lengthened platforms, an over-arching canopy system, and changes to the pedestrian tunnel between the main station and the tracks at Union Station. The state unveiled those plans this week. The project’s announcement comes months after the state Department of Transportation (DOT) also announced a $113 million plan to replace and extend the platform at State Street train station and relatedly convert the Court Street bridge to pedestrian only. The work will include replacing the four existing, “aging” platforms at Union Station; constructing one big, over-arching canopy structure and atrium over all tracks; and remodeling the tunnel that provides a pedestrian passageway between the station and the trains. The city’s main transit hub, Union Station includes train service from Metro North, Amtrak, and CTrail, as well as bus service from Peter Pan and Greyhound and a free shuttle to the Green. The DOT expects construction to begin in the spring of 2029 based on funding and permit approval. It is estimated to cost a total of $402 million, made possible by federal funds and state funds. “The purpose of this project is to rehabilitate the existing platforms and construct a new canopy which will increase the overall longevity of the station’s service to passengers and provide shelter during various weather conditions,” DOT Project Manager Jonathan Kang is quoted as saying in a press release. Read more from Hearst Connecticut’s Mark Zaretsky about a public meeting held by the DOT at Ives Main Library on Tuesday about the station improvements. Zaretsky reported that work would be phased so that only one platform is replaced at a time, hopefully minimizing disruption to train service. The project includes supporting rail and power improvements needed to complete the work, as well as supplementary improvements to the pedestrian tunnel, stairs, and elevators, according to the DOT. The DOT includes other benefits such as building an “iconic structure serving as a City landmark,” supporting increased “intercity rail service on the New Haven Main Line,” and positioning the area for “future economic growth.” Across the street, the city and the Housing Authority of New Haven are moving forward with plans to build an estimated total of 2,490 units of housing in what will be known as “Union Square,” in a new transit-oriented development zone. The first phase of 541 apartments was approved in May. Construction of the first phase is projected to begin next year and conclude in 2029. Credit: Department of Transportation Credit: Department of Transportation A new look for the tunnel. Credit: Department of Transportation The existing tunnel, designed by Herb Newman. Credit: Department of Transportation Credit: Department of Transportation The post $402M Overhaul Planned For Union Station Platforms, Tunnel appeared first on New Haven Independent. ...read more read less