MBTA Upgrades Kendall/MIT Station Access

MBTA opens renovated Kendall/MIT Station entrance with glass enclosure and new elevator

MBTA Opens Renovated Kendall/MIT Station Entrance

Red Line riders at Kendall/MIT Station will gain access to a renovated outbound entrance starting Monday, April 20, 2026, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority announced. The upgraded headhouse features a new glass enclosure with renovated stairs, an escalator, and an additional elevator accessible from street level. The project was funded by BXP in coordination with the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority.

Background

The renovation addresses accessibility and capacity needs at one of the busiest stations on the Red Line. Kendall/MIT Station serves a high-traffic area with significant commuter, student, and visitor ridership. The project represents part of the MBTA's ongoing efforts to modernize aging infrastructure and improve passenger flow at key transit hubs. The improvements come as the agency works to enhance accessibility across its system.

Key Details

The new headhouse includes a glass enclosure that provides weather protection while allowing natural light. The facility features renovated stairs and an escalator for improved vertical circulation. An additional elevator accessible from street level enhances redundancy and accessibility. The station will remain fully accessible throughout the transition, and a second new elevator will be ready for service once the final phase of renovation is complete in early June 2026.

Timeline

The renovated outbound entrance opens April 20, 2026. With that opening, the temporary outbound entrance and exit located at 325 Main Street will close. The final phase of headhouse renovation, which includes completion of a redundant elevator, is scheduled for early June 2026. The phased approach allows the station to maintain full accessibility throughout construction.

Rider Impact

Red Line riders using the outbound platform will need to use the new headhouse entrance starting April 20, as the temporary entrance at 325 Main Street closes that day. The improvements provide better weather protection, additional elevator capacity, and improved passenger flow during peak periods. Riders can check Moovit for real-time Red Line updates and trip planning around Kendall/MIT Station.