Work begins on old comfort station on Merchants Way

Over the last week, the old comfort train station on Merchants Way has been wrapped in orange plastic netting as town crews get to work upgrading the building so it can be public space, enjoyed by the whole community.

The work is being funded by a $41,500 grant from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation that aims to increase the number of safe public spaces available for socially-distanced use during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Security gates are being installed, along with lighting. The bathrooms are being fixed up, and the building is being painted.

Cafe-style tables and chairs will be added under the roof along with planters.

The space will be offered to the food service businesses and could serve as a space for entertainment. 

These improvements have been discussed by town groups including the Wareham Redevelopment Authority for at least a year. 

Municipal Maintenance Director Dave Menard said that the work should be complete by the end of October.