Should MBTA Sell Naming Rights for Stations?

AT&T Station, Verizon Crossing and Bank of America Station. What if these station names replaced some of Boston's transit stations. Or what if it were the Dunkin' Donuts Commuter Rail Station?

In passing the state Senate’s $800 million transportation package, lawmakers approved an amendment that could lead to sale of naming rights for MBTA subway and commuter rail stations, according to MyFoxBoston.com.

“While I am disappointed my proposed amendment was not adopted, which aimed to postpone an increase in the gas tax until a full review of the MBTA had been conducted, I realized that inaction was not an option,” said state Sen. Mike Rush, D-Norfolk/Suffolk. “Many of my constituents in the Norfolk and Suffolk district rely on public transportation every day. The (state) Senate passed a bill that provided for reforms to hold the MBTA accountable. For these reasons, I supported the final legislation to move this system forward.”

Rush supported the transportation plan and being able to have sponsors pay to name stations.

History is undoubtedly an important part of Boston’s culture – Park Street Station is the oldest subway station in the United States, for example – but the sale of naming rights could generate $20 million for a transportation system with major issues when it comes to raising new revenue.

Would you sell the naming rights to the stations? Leave your opinions in the comments.