1 of 4 2 of 4 3 of 4 4 of 4
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — This Red Sox Opening Day, fans travelling to Fenway Park by train may notice something a little different.
The MBTA Commuter Rail stop formerly known as Yawkey Station has been renamed to Lansdowne Station.
In a release, the MBTA said the name change is in accordance with their station naming policy, "which includes guidance to prioritize local geography such nearby streets, squares, or neighborhoods; the policy also emphasizes the selection of names based on simplicity, brevity, and distinctness."
The change follows last year's renaming of nearby Yawkey Way, the street on which Fenway Park sits, to Jersey Street.
The Red Sox requested the street's name be changed because they contend that its namesake, former team owner Tom Yawkey, had a history of racism. Yawkey was the last owner in baseball to integrate his team.
Yawkey Way No More: Street Name To Change Back To Jersey Street
The Yawkey Foundations released this statement concerning the renaming of the station:
"“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. 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.”
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App
WBZ NewsRadio's Karyn Regal (@Karynregal) reports