It appears that the new platform will wrap around the new platform. Why is it better to go around the back side?
1. In order to avoid moving the freight shed (even temporarily) the new pilings needed to be driven behind the building, then beams will be inserted under the building to support the structure between the pilings on the front/platform side across to the rear side.
2. Rather than waste this newly created space, improved pedestrian flow can occur around the entire building. This will be especially helpful during special events when two trains of up to 100 passengers each could be boarding and unloading nearly simultaneously.
3. Note also that the handicap ramp will be located behind the Sheepscot station building. The preferred pedestrian flow will now bring visitors around the back side of the station (rather than right next to the End of Track) and place them in the space between the Sheepscot station and Gift Shop/Freight Shed entrance. This allows the Sheepscot ticket window to be used for its intended purpose - to greet passengers upon arrival. This will be much safer than the current arrangement. Currently, the station agent basically needs to occupy the space in front of the station - where there is a lot of pedestrian traffic during departure/arrival times. Routing the general flow of traffic around the building eliminates this bottleneck and creates a much more pleasant, and safer visitor experience.
4. Finally, this allows the front of the Sheepscot station to be restored to its common carrier era appearance - no ramp, just a simple step up to the platform.