NextStop Blog

You may have noticed some exciting upgrades to our Central West End Transit Center. A new elevator and staircase, upgraded lighting and security features, and a new welcome center are part of the $7.5 million enhancements completed in Fall 2021.

This redesign of our busiest MetroLink Station began in December 2019 and was funded by Washington University and BJC HealthCare, in collaboration with Metro Transit. The CWE improvement project provides new amenities that help relieve pedestrian congestion, improve safety and visibility, and deliver a more comfortable and convenient experience for riders. The enhancements benefit employees, students, patients and visitors to Washington University School of Medicine, BJC HealthCare facilities and other destinations in the Central West End.

Central West End MetroLink Station Enhancement Details

Euclid Avenue Plaza

The west entrance of the Central West End MetroLink Station has been completely redesigned as the new Euclid Avenue Plaza. This unique plaza includes access to the MetroLink platform, new lighting and a welcome center staffed by School of Medicine personnel, making it easier for visitors to ask questions, get assistance and find their destinations at any of the medical facilities in the area.

New Staircase and Elevator

A new, wider staircase with a center handrail and LED lighting was constructed to connect the platform to Euclid Avenue Plaza, making it easier and safer to accommodate the large number of transit riders who use the station. The project also included a new elevator that was relocated to further alleviate pedestrian congestion, and includes glass panels for improved visibility and security monitoring. The new elevator and staircase contribute to improved mobility, visibility and reliability at the Central West End Station.

Platform Canopy

The previous canopy at the Central West End Station has been replaced by a new canopy that is three times larger, providing passengers better shelter from the elements. The canopy’s attractive glass panels are designed to significantly reduce the effect of harsh sunlight, while also improving platform visibility. This change makes it easier for Metro Public Safety, MetroLink Operations personnel, and security partners to monitor the platform, passenger levels and light rail operations.

Lighting and Other Improvements

Upgraded lighting has been installed throughout the Central West End MetroLink Station along the platform, staircase, the new plaza and at the entrance to the MetroBus area northeast of the station to improve safety and visibility at all hours of the day. In addition, the project also included new signage, landscaping, and an illuminated crosswalk at the entry to the MetroBus area in the adjacent garage. The concrete on the MetroLink platform was rehabilitated and refinished as part of the project.