Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority & T in Bloom by Olek and the Town of Canton
Collaborative Effort to Elevate Boston Area Public Transit 

Challenge: The failing Canton Junction requires an estimated $30 million to rebuild. The "giant post-apocalyptic steampunk mess of rotting footbridges," in a sense, is reflective of public view of the local transit system stalemate. The town lacks financial and legal power to rebuild the footbridge. But it can make the life of commuters easier by approaching the problem creatively.
Solution: A collaborative effort between the Town of Canton, the MBTA, MassDOT, the artist Olek, and town citizens to advance a community-driven project at the Canton Junction overpass. The crochet artist and activist Olek together with Canton’s oldest knitting factory and a community of participants will work to transform the station into a creative environment with tons of colorful yarn. All yarn will be recycled or repurposed after the project is taken down.

Results:
- Facilitate community engagement with the MBTA (T).  
- Advance sponsorship/funding for the T. Raise funds through cause-driven sponsorship, placemaking grants and crowdsourcing for the socially mindful project. 
- Boost commuter experience. Attract new riders. Scale to other communities.
- Community process and programming to facilitate social interaction, spark public discourse, and increase local capacity and engagement.
- Revitalize the commercial district around the Canton Junction station, encourage visitors to “stay and play” in Canton’s downtown and enjoy the nearby (new) Paul Revere Heritage Park.
- Instill community pride as residents become invested in their surroundings​​​​​​​.
Planned Partnerships & Collaborations
Town of Canton
MBTA
MassDOT 
Artist Olek
Canton Community
Draper Knitting
Mass Development/Commonwealth Places
City of Boston Arts & Culture
Fuller Craft Museum
Attleboro Arts Museum
Keolis