The Yawkey commuter rail station will be renamed Lansdowne, in another move to wipe the name of the former Boston Red Sox owner from public facilities around the city.
The move comes about one year after a public reevaluation of longstanding allegations of racism against longtime Red Sox owner Tom Yawkey prompted a Boston city commission to change the name of Yawkey Way, the street near Fenway Park, back to Jersey Street.
Tucked between parking lots popular with Fenway fans and the Massachusetts Turnpike, the station will take the name of the nearby street that has become associated with the ballpark.
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The name change will be finalized — complete with new signage — by April 8, the day before the Red Sox’ home opener, the T said.
The controversy about Yawkey’s views on race were in part fueled by the Red Sox being the last team to integrate in the 1950s.
The name change was sought by John W. Henry, the team’s principle owner, because of that legacy. Henry also owns The Boston Globe.
The MBTA said it chose the name Lansdowne based on the agency’s “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 T said.
In a statement, the Yawkey Foundation said it was “disappointed” in the T’s decision and highlighted the philanthropic work of Yawkey and his wife, Jean.
“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,” the foundation said.
Adam Vaccaro can be reached at adam.vaccaro@globe.com.Follow him on Twitter at @adamtvaccaro