The actual process of taking down the Brickbottom Waste Transfer Station has not yet been determined, according to City of Somerville sources.

By Cathleen Twardzik

The plan to demolish the Somerville Waste Transfer Station, located at Brickbottom, just off McGrath Highway, in August has still not been solidified.

The city is pondering various options for that site. “Proposals are currently being considered. Nothing is finalized at this point. Anything will be pursuant to environmental remediation to make the site safe,” said a spokesperson for the City of Somerville.

Among other issues, such as the existence of elevated highways in the eastern neighborhoods of Somerville, its “industrial districts are landlocked by railroads,” and the commuter rail’s engine terminal in the city is 23 acres.

At present, the future use of this site has not been decided.  It is unknown if it will be used for the MBTA Green Line, if or when the Green Line is extended to Brickbottom.

“Cleanup is our first step.  MassDOT is finishing up a two-year public process on conceptual redesigns for the McGrath Highway.  The preferred alternative that community members endorsed is a boulevard-style roadway replacing the elevated McCarthy Overpass. That conceptual design currently includes re-alignment of Poplar Street across the Waste Transfer site to make the intersection with Somerville Avenue function better,” said the spokesperson.

If the waste transfer station were razed, then the burden that its neighbors face would be lessened. The area would be more aesthetically pleasing if the structure was absent. That action will enhance the following places: Union Square, McGrath Highway, Brickbottom and Inner Belt, commensurate with SomerVision’s goals, which include active transportation, mixed-use development and additional green space, among other benefits.