Yawkey Station Renamed Lansdowne Ahead Of Red Sox Opener

FENWAY, MA — Yawkey Station commuter rail stop was officially named Lansdowne Station Monday morning, for the street around the corner. This comes after Yawkey Way was renamed following concern about former Red Sox owner Tom Yawkey's legacy, which has been marred by claims of racism.

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 the day before the first Red Sox home game of the season to roll it out to avoid any confusion this season.

The MBTA and Keolis Commuter Services have also updated station and system signage, and 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. Under Yawkey's leadership the Red Sox were the last major league team to integrate in 1959, more than a decade after Jackie Robinson became the first African-American player stepped on the field with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

Yawkey and his wife also started a philanthropic foundation that has awarded more than $500 million in grants to nonprofits across New England and South Carolina since 1977, according to the website.

"While we are disappointed by this decision, the Yawkey Foundations will carry on the mission of Tom and Jean Yawkey, a legacy of giving that has provided more than $500 million to organizations in Boston and beyond," said Justin Graeber of the Yawkey Foundations in an email to Patch. "The work Tom and Jean began while they were alive is as important as ever, and we will continue to focus our efforts on sustaining their dedication to helping those in need."

RELATED:

• Red Sox Want To Rename Yawkey Way
• Red Sox Requesting Name Change For Yawkey Way
• Fenway's Yawkey Way To Be Renamed? For Now It Stays
• Fenway Park's Yawkey Way To Be Renamed
• Yawkey Station To Be Renamed Ahead Of Red Sox Opener

Patch Reporter Jenna Fisher can be reached at Jenna.Fisher@patch.com or by calling 617-942-0474. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram (@ReporterJenna).