MBTA and Boston Animal Rescue League to Rebrand Park Street Station for Dog Adoption Drive

The MBTA will temporarily rename Park Street Station on October 29 as part of a partnership with the Animal Rescue League of Boston to mark Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. The agency announced the plan on October 26, stating that the station will operate under the name Bark Street Station from 4 PM to 6 PM on Thursday, October 29. The event is scheduled to feature dogs available for adoption, along with animals previously adopted through the Animal Rescue League of Boston.

The agency framed the activation as a community engagement opportunity tied to its operational calendar. Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng stated that the partnership offers a diversion for riders while supporting the shelter group's work. Eng stated: "We thank them for partnering with us on this station transformation, and invite everyone to Bark Street on October 29!"

Dr. Edward Schettino, President and CEO of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, described the event as a way to connect with the public regarding adoption. Schettino stated: "Every animal deserves a loving home, and Adopt a Shelter Dog Month is an important reminder of the many wonderful animals waiting for their second chance." The league operates without government funding, relying on private support to cover care costs 365 days a year, according to the organization. The league has operated in Massachusetts since 1899 and reports assisting more than 20,000 animals annually.

The event will include dogs provided by MetroWest K-9 Services, the Burlington Police Department, the Berklee College of Music Police Department, the Northeastern University Police Department, and Boston K9 LLC. These animals are designated as therapy dogs for interaction with riders. The station activation is scheduled outside Park Street Station during the Thursday afternoon window.

The MBTA identified the event as part of a year-long effort leading to the 130th anniversary of America's first subway, which opened in 1897. The agency's activities for that anniversary include historical videos released on social media throughout the year. No cost estimates or attendance figures for the October 29 event were released.