Yawkey Station Renamed Ahead Of Red Sox Opener

FENWAY, MA — Last year, Yawkey Way was renamed after concern about former Red Sox owner Tom Yawkey's legacy, which has been marred by claims of racism. Now, another landmark dedicated to him is being renamed. The MBTA on Thursday announced it will rename the Yawkey Station commuter rail stop Lansdowne Station.

Officials said they named it for the nearby street in accordance with the MBTA’s station-naming policy. The policy asks the MBTA to prioritize local geography such nearby streets, squares, or neighborhoods. The policy also emphasizes the selection of names based on simplicity, brevity and distinctness, according to a release.

The MBTA chose April 8 — the day before the first Red Sox home game of the season — to roll it out.

In the coming days, the MBTA and Keolis Commuter Services will be updating station and system signage, as well as schedule information.

Last year, Red Sox owners, including Boston Globe owner John Henry, asked the city to rename Yawkey Way in an effort to distance the team from Yawkey's legacy.

The Boston Public Improvement Commission unanimously voted to approve a change after just one person testified — but a month after a lengthy public meeting filled with emotional comment from people asking not to change the name as well as those supporting the name change gave them plenty to consider.

Those in favor of a name change — a return to the street's previous name — argued it was a way to move toward healing from a racist past. The Red Sox were the last team Major League Baseball team to integrate black players.

Today Yawkey Way is Jersey Street.

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