Located at the edge of Boston's financial district, the new Transportation Operations Control Center is the control hub of the city's public transportation network. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, responsible for running the system, had previously been managing public transit vehicles from an overcrowded, windowless structure on the site.

In designing the new structure, the architects faced considerable site and construction challenges. Because the existing building was the primary location of signals, its placement had to be located on the same site. However, it could not be expanded at street level because of the need to access a power substation. The solution was to build vertically and add five new stories, which doubled the buildings volume.

A key component in the new structure is the two-tier operations control theater that brings together, in one space, the operations management of light rail, rapid transit and bus systems. This enhances the coordination of service requirements and scheduling needs. A glass-fronted mezzanine control room enables the controllers to coordinate the vehicle dispatchers and resources in cases of emergencies.

Attention was also give to the external appearance of the building. One harbor-facing side features a deep cornice and cantilevered steel balcony, and the other flat facade, facing the financial district, is articulated through its window system.

CREDITS...

• Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
• Leers Weinzapfel Associates, Architects, Inc.

JURY COMMENTS...

Ingenuity can be found in the layout of internal space and the architects' dedication to improving the functional relationships often overlooked in these buildings.

This project is also exemplary in its urban qualities: its use of materials, detailing and overall size contribute to its contextual fit in the center of Boston. The siting of the building provided a contribution to the urban landscape, enhancing the skyline.