Park Street Station to host dog event for two hours

Commuters using Park Street Station in Boston will encounter a temporary rebrand on Thursday, October 29. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority has announced that the station will operate as “Bark Street Station” from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This two-hour window is dedicated to an event featuring shelter dogs and K-9 units from local agencies.

The initiative aligns with October’s designation as Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. The MBTA partnered with the Animal Rescue League of Boston, or ARL, to facilitate the gathering. Attendees can interact with dogs available for adoption, including those previously placed through ARL programs. The event also aims to inform the public about fostering, volunteering, and other support methods for the organization.

Several local law enforcement and academic institutions will contribute therapy dogs to the event. Participating groups include 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 canines are scheduled to meet riders outside the station during the designated afternoon hours.

Phillip Eng, Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO, framed the event as a community engagement opportunity. “Whether you're passing through on your commute or stopping by specifically for the event, come celebrate our furry friends with us!” Eng said. He noted the partnership provides a moment of levity for riders while supporting ARL’s operational goals.

Dr. Edward Schettino, President and CEO of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, emphasized the organization’s mission. “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,” Schettino said. He expressed enthusiasm for the MBTA collaboration, hoping the visibility would encourage more individuals to consider adopting shelter animals.

This station transformation is one component of the MBTA’s year-long celebration of the 130th anniversary of America’s first subway. The original subway line opened in 1897. The MBTA is releasing special historical social media videos throughout the year to mark the occasion. The dog adoption event serves as a public-facing activity within this broader commemorative timeline.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston was founded in 1899 and is the first female-founded animal welfare organization in Massachusetts. The agency reports helping more than 20,000 animals annually. ARL operates without government funding, relying on private support to provide care 365 days a year. The organization maintains a presence on Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Instagram, with additional details available at arlboston.org.

The MBTA invited riders and the public to attend the event on October 29. The station will remain in service, with the special programming occurring outside the entrance. The two-hour timeframe allows for interaction with the canine guests while minimizing disruption to regular transit flow during the afternoon peak.