Designing may start soon
for Wollaston station upgrades

Plans to install elevators and other aids for handicapped riders are moving ahead for the Wollaston, Hynes, and Symphony T stations.

The state Department of Transportation’s Board of Directors on Wednesday authorized the MBTA to execute a contract of up to $3.3 million with SEA Consultants for design engineering services to bring the three stations in compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act.

SEA, a Cambridge-based engineering and architecture firm, is expected to offer a contract within two months, and the contract is to be completed within 18 months of its signing, said Frank DePaola, the MBTA’s assistant general manager for design and construction. A timetable the construction hasn’t been determined.

According to an MBTA staff document, improvements at the Wollaston station will include the addition of elevators, as well as modifications to platform stairs, benches, doors, restrooms, signals, and other facilities.

On Monday, the Quincy City Council passed a resolution endorsing the idea of upgrading accessibility at the station. The resolution, also supported by Mayor Thomas P. Koch, said that within a mile of the station, there are many seniors and disabled residents who use public transportation.

According to the MBTA, the federal government is expected to cover 80 percent of the costs for the project.