Good time for T to rethink plan

WHEN THE MBTA tried to sell its Silver Line Phase III bus plan several years ago to the many Boston communities that would be affected, there were few takers. Roxbury was angered by its inadequacy as the long-promised replacement of the dismantled light rail Orange Line that traveled the Washington Street corridor. Bay Village was fearful of the construction impact on its fragile foundations. Chinatown had run out of patience with transportation "improvements" that had clogged streets. Back Bay was concerned about groundwater levels, damage to Boston Common, and traffic. More than 20 community groups came together to fight the project.

Only A Better City became a cheerleader for the project.

With the likelihood that the Federal Transit Administration will soon downgrade its rating of Silver Line III because of the T's $8.1 billion debt, it appears it will be necessary for the T to put its financial house in order. Maybe during this regrouping the T will also be able to come up with a Silver Line III concept that would be welcomed by the communities it is mandated to serve.

Peter Sherin
Boston

The writer is chairman of the transportation committee for the Neighborhood Association of the Back Bay.