"State officials estimated delays will be reduced by 91 percent with the preferred design"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The public next week will have the opportunity to learn and ask questions about the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the upcoming Mass Pike-Interstate-495 interchange reconstruction.

A public meeting will be held Wednesday, Oct. 30 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Marathon Elementary School cafeteria.

The report includes the status of project planning and design, the type and size of the project, requirements of state agencies and reasonable alternatives and methods to avoid, minimize and mitigate environmental impacts, according to the state Department of Transportation’s website. The project needs to dodge wetlands, the Sudbury River, Department of Conservation and Recreation land, train tracks and private property.

Residents can receive a copy of the Draft Environmental Impact Report by emailing Nathaniel Curtis at ncabralcurtis@hshassoc.com. Those unable to attend next week’s meeting can provide written comments on the report. Written comments can be sent to Secretary Kathleen Theoharides, Attn: Page Czepgia, Assistant Director, MEPA Office, Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, 100 Cambridge St., Suite 900, Boston, MA 02114 or page.czepgia@state.ma.us."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191022/public-can-ask-questions-at-oct-30-forum-about-report-on-reconstruction-on-pike495-interchange


Additional info can be found on the MassDOT page
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/about-the-i-495i-90-interchange-improvements-project

https://wikimapping.com/wikimap/I495I90.html

https://wikimapping.com/wikimap/I495I90.html

MassDOT: Rt 140 Road Construction Status Update

Rt 140 Road Construction Status Update

9/24/19

The Town had received many inquiries as to when the road work will be completed on State Highway Route 140 at the Exit 17 off ramp intersection. The Town has contacted the state to receive this update.

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is anticipating completion of paving Rt 140 by the end of this week or early next week, weather dependent.

The pavement will need to cure for 3 days before painting and striping. Once the pavement has been striped, paving of Apron/Entrances will commence.

The state is looking at completing the entire project within roughly two weeks. 



This was shared from the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/rt-140-road-construction-status-update

"It’s really giving people another option to getting around"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Transportation officials outlined several initiates to increase cycling and walking in its final State Bicycle Transportation Plan and State Pedestrian Transportation Plan released last week.

Constructing safer bike networks, increasing bike share programs and improving maintenance of trails are some initiatives state transportation officials are eyeing to get more cyclists on the roads.

The state Department of Transportation last week released its final Bicycle Transportation Plan and Pedestrian Transportation Plan highlighting initiatives to make streets safer for bicyclists and pedestrians. The bike plan was last updated in 2008 and the pedestrian plan in the late 1990s. There have been several advances in technology, research and design during that period.

“The transportation sector is evolving so rapidly,” said Jackie DeWolfe, DOT director of sustainable mobility."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190725/state-transportation-leaders-release-plans-to-increase-bicycle-pedestrian-traffic

view the bicycle plan - https://www.mass.gov/service-details/bicycle-plan
view the pedestrian plan - https://www.mass.gov/service-details/pedestrian-plan

view the bicycle plan

"estimated delays will be reduced by 91 percent"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The state’s preferred design for the reconstruction of the troublesome Interstate-495-Mass Pike interchange eliminates weaving that often causes bottlenecks and crashes at the existing junction.

State transportation leaders unveiled the preferred project design at the first of four public information meetings at Hopkinton Town Hall on Thursday. The design includes designated ramps and lanes for each traffic maneuver to make getting off the highway and merging much safer.

The interchange is known for significant traffic during peak hours, weekends and summertime. It also has a high crash rate. More than 75,000 vehicles pass through the junction each day. More than 450 crashes – including two fatalities – occurred there between 2011 and 2015. Joseph Cahill, a consultant on the project, estimated a crash occurs there once every three or four days.

“We’re significantly improving the safety of the interchange,” said Cahill."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190725/state-officials-unveil-preferred-design-for-overhaul-of-i-495-mass-pike-interchange

For more info on the project visit their webpage
https://www.mass.gov/i-495i-90-interchange-improvements

There is an interactive map for comments
  https://wikimapping.com/wikimap/I495I90.html

an interactive map

"designed to improve safety and operational efficiency"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"State transportation leaders will outline preferred design for I-495/90 interchange reconstruction.

Want to learn more about the potential design plan for the reconstruction of the heavily traveled interchange of I-495 and the Mass. Pike? The state Department of Transportation (DOT) will hold four informational meetings throughout MetroWest later this month.

Meetings: The first public meeting will be held Thursday, July 25, at Hopkinton High School. Others will be held Tuesday, July 30, at Hudson Town Hall; Wednesday, July 31, at Shrewsbury Town Hall; and Thursday, Aug. 1, at the Holliston police headquarters. All meetings will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m"

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190714/transportation-officials-will-share-preferred-deisgn-for-i-49590-interchange-at-four-public-meetings-this-month

For more info on the project visit their webpage
https://www.mass.gov/i-495i-90-interchange-improvements

There is an interactive map for comments
  https://wikimapping.com/wikimap/I495I90.html

an interactive map

Draft Statewide Bicycle Transportation Plan - available for public comment

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing that the Draft Statewide Bicycle Transportation Plan is now available for public comment. You can review the plan and provide feedback by clicking the link below.

2018 Statewide Bicycle Transportation Plan

https://massdot.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapJournal/index.html?appid=c80930586c474a3486d391a850007694

To realize the potential for everyday biking in Massachusetts and underscore MassDOT’s commitment to safety, MassDOT is releasing a new Statewide Bicycle Transportation Plan to make biking in Massachusetts a safe, comfortable, and convenient option for everyday travel.

As part of the Bike Plan, MassDOT developed the Municipal Resource Guide for Bikeability in recognition of the important role the 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts will play. Created for municipal staff, elected officials, community members, and anyone interested in biking, the Resource Guide introduces core concepts to enhance community bikeability and directs readers to additional resources for more detailed information. 

The public comment period for the draft Bicycle Plan is open until January 31, 2019.

https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2018/10/31/18_08_31_MRGBiking.pdf

This was shared from the Mass.gov page
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/bicycle-plan

The bike lane markings painted as part of the Downtown Improvement
project that returned Main St to 2-way travel

In the News: Franklin kids up for TV appearance; i495-i90 interchange planning underway

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Being an American Ninja Warrior doesn’t always mean hulking muscles and decades of training - sometimes all it takes is the fearlessness of a child. 

Franklin siblings Zack and Penny Keenan will soon be featured as part of the inaugural American Ninja Warrior Junior competition. 

The premiere of American Ninja Warriors Jr. will be aired on Saturday at 7 p.m. on the NBC channel Universal Kids. It’s not guaranteed that the Keenan siblings will be on that first show, but they will be featured at some point during the debut season. 

“They each have unique stories,” said their father, Tim Keenan, who owns Strive Ninja Fitness in Franklin. “Penny is almost 10 years old, and her whole life she’s been in the zero-growth percentile.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required) 
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181008/franklin-siblings-make-debut-season-of-american-ninja-warriors-junior

Strive Ninja Fitness in Franklin (Strive Ninja photo)

"State officials are working to narrow down four designs to rebuild the Interstate 495-Mass Pike interchange, which becomes a traffic chokepoint in the region at rush hour, weekends and during the height of the summer tourism season. 

Nearly a dozen Hopkinton residents and business officials saw the conceptual plans during a meeting at the Marathon Elementary School Tuesday night. Similar meetings will take place in Worcester, Bolton and Milford for the project that started picking up steam in 2013. 

The price tag is expected to be $296 million to $413 million, depending on which option is selected. A 25 percent design public hearing is expected in 2020. 

The interchange is known for significant traffic congestion during peak hours, weekends and summertime and has a high crash rate. Approximately 75,000 cars go through the interchange daily. The project is designed to improve traffic and reduce the impact on wetlands, according to the presentation."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required) 
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181009/three-49590-interchange-designs-rise-to-top

The next information session is scheduled for Oct 11 in Worcester. Details for the meeting and additional documents for the project can be found online
https://www.mass.gov/i-495i-90-interchange-improvements

Check out the interactive map for the i495-i90 project
http://wikimapping.com/wikimap/I495I90.html

the interactive map for the i495-i90 project

MassDOT: (Updated Links) Comm. Ave Bridge Project Reminder: Shutdown: July 26 to August 11: Significant Impacts to Comm. Ave, I-90, and the MBTA

2018 Construction Shutdown: July 26 – August 11

Significant Impacts to Comm Ave, I-90, and the MBTA

This is a reminder that the 2018 Construction Shutdown for the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge Replacement Project is beginning, Thursday, July 26, at 7:00 PM and will continue through 5:00 AM on Saturday, August 11. Please note the construction-related impacts below:

For Drivers:

I-90 (Mass Pike) Users:
        •       Lane reductions on I-90 between the Allston Interchange and the Beacon Street Overpass in
                Boston from 9:00 PM on July 27 to 5:00 AM on August 6:
                        o       Peak hours: reduced to two lanes in each direction
                        o       Off-peak hours and weekends:
                        o       Weekends of July 27-30 and August 3-6 (9:00 PM each Friday to 5:00 AM each  Monday)
                                        •       One eastbound and two westbound lanes open, or one westbound
                                                and two eastbound lanes open
                        o       Weekdays, July 30-31 (during eastbound shift): 7:00 PM to 5:00 AM
                                        •       One eastbound lane open and two westbound lanes open
                        o       Weekdays, August 2-3 (during westbound shift): 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM
                                        •       One westbound lane open and two eastbound lanes open
        •       Ramp closures on I-90 in Boston from 9:00 PM on July 27 to 5:00 AM on August 6:
                        o       The I-90 Eastbound on-ramp from Cambridge Street/Soldiers Field Road will be closed during this entire period.
                        o       The I-90 Westbound Exit 20 off-ramp to Brighton/Cambridge will be closed intermittently.
                        o       See the "I-90 (Mass Pike) Ramp Closures Detour" on the Traffic Management page
                                http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx
        •       I-90 will be fully restored to four lanes in each direction by 5:00 AM on August 6.

        Commonwealth Avenue Users:
        •       Commonwealth Avenue (between Packard's Corner and Kenmore Square) will be closed to vehicular through traffic (local access only) from 7:00 PM on July 26 to 5:00 AM on August 11. Access will be maintained for businesses and abutting properties.
        •       See the "Commonwealth Avenue Closure Detour" on the Traffic Management page
                http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx

                Boston University (BU) Bridge Users:
        •       The BU Bridge will be closed to vehicular and bus traffic from 7:00 PM on July 26 to 5:00 AM on August 11.
        •       See the "Boston University (BU) Bridge Closure Detour" on the Traffic Management page
                http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx

For Pedestrians and Bicyclists:

Pedestrians and bicyclists will have full access across the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge on the eastbound side throughout construction. There will be additional Blue Bikes stations on Commonwealth Avenue during the shutdown (see below).
        •       The Pedestrian Routes and Detours map shows the minor pedestrian detour that will be in place to keep pedestrians safely away from the work zone:
                http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/Portals/8/docs/HighlightedProjects/CommAveBridge/Ped_Detour.pdf
        •       The Bicycle Routes and Detours map shows the bicycle routes that will be in place. Bicyclists heading north and south between Mountfort/Essex Street and the BU Bridge will follow a minor detour route: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/Portals/8/docs/HighlightedProjects/CommAveBridge/BikeDetourMap.pdf
        •       See the Walk and Bike Times Map:
                http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/Portals/8/docs/HighlightedProjects/CommAveBridge/WalkBikeTimeReduced.pdf

For MBTA Green B Line Users:

The Green B Line will be replaced with shuttle buses between Babcock Street and Blandford Street Stations from 5:00 AM on July 27 to 5:00 AM on August 11. See the MBTA project website for additional information: https://www.mbta.com/projects/commonwealth-avenue-bridge-replacement#greenlineb.

For MBTA CT2 and 47 Bus Users:

MBTA Bus Routes CT2 and 47 will be detoured from the normal routes from 7:00 PM on July 26 to 5:00 AM on August 11. The Route 57 Bus will operate its normal route.
        •       See the Route 47 detour map: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/Portals/8/docs/HighlightedProjects/CommAveBridge/CommAve_Shuttle_Map_47.pdf
        •       See the Route CT2 detour map: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/Portals/8/docs/HighlightedProjects/CommAveBridge/CommAve_Shuttle_Map_CT2.pdf
        •       See the MBTA project website for additional information: https://www.mbta.com/projects/commonwealth-avenue-bridge-replacement#greenlineb.

For MBTA Commuter Rail Framingham/Worcester Line Users:

During the weekends of July 28-29 and August 4-5, there will be no train service between Framingham and South Station.
        •       Free bus shuttles will replace train service between Framingham and Wellesley Farms. After Wellesley Farms, the shuttle bus will then continue nonstop to Riverside, where riders can connect to the Green D Line.
        •       In addition to the local shuttles, express shuttle service will be available between
                Framingham and Riverside.
        •       See www.mbta.com/worcester for more information and view a detailed shuttle schedule.
        •       Service will be maintained during weekdays.

For Amtrak Lakeshore Limited Line Users: Amtrak's Lakeshore Limited Line/Chicago will be replaced by shuttle buses between South Station and Albany, NY with stops in Springfield and Worcester for the weekends of July 28-29 and August 4-5.

MassDOT Encourages Active Transportation

There will be pedestrian and bicycle wayfinding signage at all Green Line shuttle bus stops on Commonwealth Avenue to encourage active transportation, especially for short trips. This will help optimize shuttle bus operations by shortening bus wait times and headways.

Additional Blue Bikes Service
MassDOT is partnering with the City of Boston to provide an additional temporary Blue Bikes station at Silber Way on Commonwealth Ave during the construction period.

Other nearby stations include:
·         Kenmore Square
·         BU Central - 725 Commonwealth Ave
·         Commonwealth Ave at Amory St
·         Commonwealth Ave at Babcock Street
·         Packard's Corner - Commonwealth Ave at Brighton Ave
·         Lower Cambridgeport at Magazine St
·         Longwood and Binney

Valet service will be provided as follows:
·         Commonwealth Ave at Babcock St - 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM
·         Longwood and Binney - 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM
·         Silber Way – 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM

Get Ready to Ride
Download the Blue Bikes app on the App Store or Google Play to find a station near you. For a limited time, Blue Bikes is dropping their Single Trip Pass to  from July 26 - August 11,
available in the Blue Bikes app. For more information, visit bluebikes.com.

Please see the project website, www.mass.gov/massdot/commavebridge, for more information.

Please share this advisory with anyone you think may be interested in the project, and encourage them to sign up for email alerts for traffic updates and meeting announcements:
https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MADOT/subscriber/new?topic_id=MADOT_77%27

For any questions or comments, please contact Jim Kersten, Deputy Chief of Staff,
MassDOT Highway Division, at 857-368-9041 or by email at CommAveBridge@dot.state.ma.us.

Sincerely,
Commonwealth Ave Bridge Replacement Project Team

Thank you,
EZDriveMA Customer Service Center.

Comm Ave Bridge Project Update: I-90 Lane Reductions
and Ramp Closures begin July 27

"This summer’s project will use a more condensed timeline"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Have any vacation time saved up? If you commute to work on the Massachusetts Turnpike, this might be a good time to use it. 

State transportation officials are warning drivers to expect significant delays in the area of the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge in Boston as the state finishes the second phase of its $110 million project to replace it. 

The work, set to begin this week, will disrupt nearly all forms of travel, though for commuters in MetroWest, the worst effects will likely be felt between 9 p.m. on Friday, July 27 and 5 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 6. 

During that nine-and-a-half day stretch, the Turnpike will be reduced to a maximum of two lanes in either direction between the Allston Interchange and the Beacon Street Overpass."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180723/boston-bridge-project-to-slow-mass-pike-commute

Additional details and link to MassDOT information on the project was shared in May  http://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/05/comm-ave-bridge-project-update-i-90.html

Comm Ave Bridge Project Update: I-90 Lane Reductions
and Ramp Closures begin July 27

Reminder: Lane Reductions & Ramp Closures on I-90 in Boston this Weekend (June 1-3)

Beginning at 9:00 PM on Friday, June 1, MassDOT will reduce I-90 (Mass Pike) between the Allston Interchange and the Beacon Street Overpass in Boston to two lanes in each direction. I-90 will reopen to four lanes in each direction by 5:00 AM on Sunday, June 3. This will allow MassDOT and its contractor to conduct necessary preparation activities and a "dry run" to test the I-90 traffic logistics for the 2018 Construction Shutdown (July 26 – August 11), with the goal of making sure it will run as smoothly as possible.

The I-90 Eastbound on-ramp from Cambridge Street/Soldier's Field Road will be closed during the dry run. The I-90 Westbound Exit 20 off-ramp to Brighton/Cambridge will be closed intermittently. See the I-90 (Mass Pike) Ramp Closures Detour Map and directions on the Traffic Management page (http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx).

During the dry run, a "crossover" on I-90 will direct all vehicles to either the eastbound or westbound roadways at different periods of time. There will be no impacts to the MBTA Green Line, Commuter Rail, or local vehicular traffic during the dry run.

I-90 Impacts during the 2018 Construction Shutdown

From 9:00 PM on July 27 to 5:00 AM on August 6, MassDOT will implement lane reductions and ramp closures on I-90 in Boston (between the Allston Interchange and the Beacon Street Overpass), as follows:

• Two lanes in each direction during peak hours (additional lane closures during weekends and off-peak hours).
• The I-90 Eastbound on-ramp from Cambridge Street/Soldiers Field Road will be closed this entire period.
• The I-90 Westbound Exit 20 off-ramp to Brighton/Cambridge will be closed intermittently.
• The lane reductions will be necessary during the shutdown for the contractor to access the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge for demolition and replacement (see the video simulation of the project on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QiGoPf8-3-Q).

For a full list of traffic impacts during the 2018 Construction Shutdown, see the Traffic Management page of the project website (http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx).

Please share this advisory with anyone you think may be interested in the project, and encourage them to sign up for email alerts for traffic updates and meeting announcements: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MADOT/subscriber/new?topic_id=MADOT_77%27.

For more information on the Commonwealth Ave Bridge Replacement Project, please visit the project website: www.mass.gov/massdot/commavebridge.

For any questions or comments, please contact Jim Kersten, MassDOT Legislative Liaison, at 857-368-9041 or by email at CommAveBridge@dot.state.ma.us.

Sincerely,

Commonwealth Ave Bridge Replacement Project Team

Reminder: Commonwealth Ave. Bridge Project This Week; I-90 Lane Reductions

Comm Ave Bridge Project Update: I-90 Lane Reductions and Ramp Closures on Weekend of June 1-3 for Dry Run

Dear EZDriveMA Customer,

Lane Reductions and Ramp Closures on I-90 in Boston on the Weekend of June 1-3 for Dry Run

Beginning at 9:00 PM on Friday, June 1, MassDOT will reduce I-90 (Mass Pike) between the Allston Interchange and the Beacon Street Overpass in Boston to two lanes in each direction. I-90 will reopen to four lanes in each direction by 5:00 AM on Sunday, June 3. This will allow MassDOT and its contractor to conduct necessary preparation activities and a "dry run" to test the I-90 traffic logistics for the 2018 Construction Shutdown (July 26 – August 11), with the goal of making sure it will run as smoothly as possible.

The I-90 Eastbound on-ramp from Cambridge Street/Soldier's Field Road will be closed during the dry run. The I-90 Westbound Exit 20 off-ramp to Brighton/Cambridge will be closed intermittently.

See the I-90 (Mass Pike) Ramp Closures Detour Map and directions on the Traffic Management page (http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx)

During the dry run, a "crossover" on I-90 will direct all vehicles to either the eastbound
or westbound roadways at different periods of time. There will be no impacts to the MBTA
Green Line, Commuter Rail, or local vehicular traffic during the dry run.

I-90 Impacts during the 2018 Construction Shutdown
From 9:00 PM on July 27 to 5:00 AM on August 6, MassDOT will implement lane reductions and ramp closures on I-90 in Boston (between the Allston Interchange and the Beacon Street Overpass), as follows:

• Two lanes in each direction during peak hours (additional lane closures during weekends and off-peak hours).
• The I-90 Eastbound on-ramp from Cambridge Street/Soldiers Field Road will be closed this entire period.
• The I-90 Westbound Exit 20 off-ramp to Brighton/Cambridge will be closed intermittently.
• The lane reductions will be necessary during the shutdown for the contractor to access the Commonwealth  Avenue Bridge for demolition and replacement (see the video simulation of the project on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QiGoPf8-3-Q).

For a full list of traffic impacts during the 2018 Construction Shutdown, see the Traffic Management page of the project website (http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx).

Please share this advisory with anyone you think may be interested in the project, and encourage them to sign up for email alerts for traffic updates and meeting announcements:
https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MADOT/subscriber/new?topic_id=MADOT_77%27.

For more information on the Commonwealth Ave Bridge Replacement Project, please visit the project website: www.mass.gov/massdot/commavebridge.

For any questions or comments, please contact Jim Kersten, MassDOT Legislative Liaison, at 857-368-9041 or by email at CommAveBridge@dot.state.ma.us.

Sincerely,
Commonwealth Ave Bridge Replacement Project Team

Comm Ave Bridge Project Update: I-90 Lane Reductions
and Ramp Closures on Weekend of June 1-3 for Dry Run

Reminder: Commonwealth Ave. Bridge Project This Week; I-90 Lane Reductions

This is a reminder that the 2017 Construction Shutdown for the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge Replacement Project (http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement.aspx) is beginning at 9:00 PM on Wednesday, July 26, and will continue through 5:00 AM on Monday, August 14. Please note the construction-related impacts below:

Reminder: Commonwealth Ave. Bridge Project This Week; I-90 Lane Reductions

For Drivers:

I-90 (Mass Pike) Users:
From 9:00 PM on July 28 to 5:00 AM on August 7:
• I-90 between the Allston Interchange and the Beacon Street Overpass in Boston will be reduced to two lanes in both directions during peak hours (additional lane closures during off-peak hours, see below).
• The I-90 Eastbound on-ramp from Cambridge Street/Soldiers Field Road will be closed.
• The I-90 Westbound Exit 20 off-ramp to Brighton/Cambridge will be closed intermittently.

I-90 Off-Peak Lane Reductions:
Weekdays, July 28 - August 1 (during I-90 eastbound shift):
• 7:00 PM to 5:00 AM: one eastbound lane open and two westbound lanes open
Weekdays, August 2 - August 7 (during I-90 westbound shift):
• 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM: one westbound lane open and two eastbound lanes open
Weekends (9:00 PM on Friday to 5:00 AM on Monday):
• One eastbound and two westbound lanes open, or one westbound and two eastbound lanes open

See the "I-90 (Mass Pike) Ramp Closures Detour" on the Traffic Management page: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx

Commonwealth Avenue Users:
• Commonwealth Avenue (between Packard's Corner and Kenmore Square) will be closed to vehicular through traffic (local access only) from 7:00 PM on July 27 to 5:00 AM on August 14. Access will be maintained for businesses and abutting properties.
• See the "Commonwealth Avenue Closure Detour" on the Traffic Management page: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx

Boston University (BU) Bridge Users:
• The BU Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic from 7:00 PM on July 27 to 5:00 AM on August 14.
• See the "Boston University (BU) Bridge Closure Detour" on the Traffic Management page: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx


For Pedestrians and Bicyclists:
• Pedestrians and bicyclists will have full access across the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge on the westbound side throughout construction.
• Bicyclists heading north and south between Mountfort/Essex Street and the BU Bridge will follow a minor detour route. See the new Bicycle Routes and Detours Map on the Traffic Management page: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx
• There will be additional Hubway stations on Commonwealth Avenue during the shutdown (see below).
• See the Walk and Bike Times Map: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/Portals/8/docs/HighlightedProjects/CommAveBridge/WalkBikeTimeReduced.pdf


For MBTA Green B Line Users:
• The Green B Line will be replaced with shuttle buses between Babcock Street and Blandford Street Stations from 9:00 PM on July 26 to 5:00 AM on August 14.
• See the Green Line page on the project website: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement/GreenLineBBranch.aspx

For MBTA Commuter Rail and Amtrak Users:
• The Commuter Rail Framingham/Worcester Line will operate regular service on weekdays.
• On weekends (July 29-30 and August 5-6), service will terminate at Boston Landing, where customers can take a shuttle to Reservoir on the Green Line D branch.
• Extra Green Line trains will run from Reservoir to Park Street to accommodate Commuter Rail passengers.
• There is no scheduled direct shuttle service provided between Boston Landing and Yawkey, Back Bay, or South Station.
• There will be service between Boston Landing and Yawkey Station only related to the Red Sox games (7/29, 7/30, 8/5, 8/6). This service will be inbound from Boston Landing to Yawkey three hours before the start of each game and outbound with a departure 30 minutes after the conclusion of the ballgame.
• See the Commuter Rail page on the project website: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement/CommuterRailFraminghamWorcesterLine.aspx
• Amtrak's Lakeshore Limited Line will be replaced by shuttle buses between South Station and Albany, NY for the weekends of July 29-30 and August 5-6.


For MBTA Bus Users:
• MBTA Bus Routes CT2 and 47 will be detoured from the normal routes from 7:00 PM on July 27 to 5:00 AM on August 14.
• See the MBTA Bus page on the project website: http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement/Bus47CT2and57.aspx
• Route 57 Bus will operate its normal route.

MassDOT Encourages Active Transportation

There will be pedestrian and bicycle wayfinding signage at all Green Line shuttle bus stops on Commonwealth Avenue to encourage active transportation, especially for short trips. This will help optimize shuttle bus operations by shortening bus wait times and headways.

Additional Hubway Stations:

MassDOT is partnering with Hubway to provide additional temporary Hubway stations on Commonwealth Avenue during the construction period at:
• Babcock Street
• Silber Way

Hubway Ambassadors will be assisting users at these temporary locations Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM and from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM, providing additional bikes on a first-come, first-serve basis. All existing Hubway stations along Commonwealth Avenue and the rest of the Hubway service area will continue to be operational.

For New Hubway Users
• Download the brand new Hubway mobile app, available for iPhone and Android: http://www.thehubway.com/how-it-works/get-the-app
• Use the app to find a station near you.
• Starting soon, you'll also be able to get a pass via the app (only for a single trip or save 0 on a full annual membership during the shutdown!)
For more information, visit http://www.thehubway.com, and download the new Hubway mobile app.

Please see the project website: www.mass.gov/massdot/commavebridge for more information and to review project documents and presentations.

Please share this advisory with anyone you think may be interested in the project, and encourage them to sign up for email alerts for traffic updates and meeting announcements: http://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MADOT/subscriber/new?topic_id=MADOT_77%27

For any questions or comments, please contact Jim Kersten, MassDOT Legislative Liaison, at 857-368-9041 or by email at CommAveBridge@dot.state.ma.us.

Sincerely,
Commonwealth Ave Bridge Replacement Project Team

Travel Alert: I-90 Reduction - 2 lanes only on June 3 and 4

Dear EZDriveMA Customer,

I-90 DRY RUN: Upcoming Lane Reductions on I-90 to Prepare for Commonwealth Ave Bridge Replacement Project

        •       From 11:59 PM on Friday, June 2, to 5:00 AM on Monday, June 5, MassDOT will reduce I-90 to 2 lanes in both directions between the Allston Interchange and the Beacon Street Overpass.
        •       MassDOT and its contractor will be conducting a "dry run" of the traffic logistics on I-90 for the major construction that will take place from July 26 to August 14 .
        •       A "crossover" on I-90 will direct all vehicular traffic to either the eastbound or westbound roadways at different periods of time – see the map below.

                http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/portals/8/Images/highlightedProjects/CommAveBridge/CommAveCrossover.jpg

Travel Alert: I-90 Reduction  - 2 lanes only on June 3 and 4

About the Project

The Commonwealth Ave Bridge Replacement Project will replace the bridge that carries Commonwealth Avenue and the MBTA Green B Line over I-90/Mass Turnpike and the MBTA Commuter Rail. The existing bridge, constructed in 1965, is in poor condition. The project will replace a structurally deficient bridge while adding dedicated bike lanes and extensive pedestrian safety upgrades.

2017 Construction Window – Transportation Impacts

Between Wednesday, July 26 and Monday, August 14, these modes of transportation will be impacted in the Boston University/Saint Paul Street neighborhood:
        •       MBTA Green B Line from Babcock Street to Blandford Street Stations: closed from 9:00 PM on July 26 to 5:00 AM on August 14 (shuttle buses will run between Babcock Street and Blandford Street Stations)
        •       Commonwealth Avenue eastbound and westbound between Brighton Avenue/Packard's Corner and Kenmore Square: closed to private vehicular traffic from 7:00 PM on July 27 to 5:00 AM on August 14 (two-way access will be maintained for MBTA buses, emergency services, pedestrians, and bicyclists)
        •       Boston University (BU) Bridge: closed to private vehicular traffic from 7:00 PM on July 27 to 5:00 AM on August 14 (two-way access will be maintained for MBTA buses, emergency services, pedestrians, and bicyclists)
        •       MBTA Bus Routes CT2 and 47: detoured from normal routes from 7:00 PM on July 27 to 5:00 AM on August 14 (see project website for detour maps)
        •       I-90 (Mass Pike) between the Allston Interchange and Beacon Street Overpass: lane reductions from 9:00 PM on July 28 to 5:00 AM on August 7 and intermittent closures of Exit 20 on/off-ramps (2 lanes in each direction during peak period)
        •       MBTA Commuter Rail Framingham/Worcester Line: service impacts for two weekends (July 29-30 and August 5-6) – service will be maintained during weekdays; shuttle bus service from Boston Landing to Reservoir Station (Yawkey Way during Red Sox games)
        •       Amtrak's Lakeshore Limited Line: service impacts for two weekends (July 29-30 and August 5-6) – shuttle bus service between Albany, NY and Boston

These short-term impacts are necessary for MassDOT's contractor to work continuous shifts 24 hours a day using Accelerated Bridge Construction. This approach reduces the construction duration from four to five years to two intensive construction windows, with the second construction window occurring in 2018.
Please see the project website, www.mass.gov/massDOT/CommAveBridge, for a detailed project schedule, temporary traffic impacts and detour maps.
MassDOT's goal is to anticipate and manage potential traffic impacts. A key to this success is minimizing traffic volume as much as possible in the area. With that in mind, we are asking abutters and customers to:
        •       Reduce – Try to schedule your vacation during this planned construction period. Avoid the construction area as much as possible.
        •       Reschedule – Alter work schedules, commuting times, or work from home, if possible.
        •       Re-mode – Shift to public transportation, walking, or biking. One side of the bridge will remain open to pedestrians and bicycles throughout the project.

Stay Informed!
        •       Visit the project website, www.mass.gov/massDOT/CommAveBridge, to sign up for the project email list and encourage your colleagues, employees, friends, and neighbors to sign up.
        •       If you have any questions about the project, please contact Jim Kersten, MassDOT Legislative Liaison, at (857) 368-9041 or email CommAveBridge@dot.state.ma.us.


Please visit the following link for additional information.

http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/HighlightedProjects/CommonwealthAvenueBridgeReplacement/TrafficManagement.aspx


Thank you,
EZDriveMA Customer Service Center.