MBTA Green Line extension bids 'on budget,' agency says

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has received certifications that two bids for its Green Line light-rail extension will be on budget, the agency announced last week.

Two of the three design-build teams on a short list to work on the $2.2 billion project have verified that their proposals will be at or below the established $1.319 billion affordability limit.

Part of the final request for proposals, the certification enables the agency to move the project's next phase, MBTA officials said in a  press release.

"Certification of the project's affordability ensures the project proposals are competitive, and that it can be built out with the established budget, and brings the vision of Green Line service one major step forward for our customers," said MBTA General Manager Luis Manuel Ramirez.

The project involves extending the Green Line from its terminus in Cambridge to Somerville, Massachusetts.

The final RFP details the project's base scope of work, as well as options only to be included if the design-build teams affirm they can be completed within the project schedule and under the affordability limit.

The options include platform canopies, additional elevators, public art and an enhanced vehicle maintenance facility in Somerville.

Actual pricing and potential inclusion of the options will be unveiled at a Nov. 17 public pricing opening.