On January 18, the MassDOT hosted its third public hearing on the multi-faceted analysis of land use options along 128/I-95 — from Newton to Lexington — for housing, transportation, and economic development. According to the project fact sheet, “The study will develop and analyze alternatives, present policy and infrastructure recommendations and develop an implementation plan to advance this corridor into the future.” Moreover, the fact sheet states that study’s goals include: improving access, safety and mobility; supporting strategic land use and economic vitality; advancing social equity throughout; contributing environmental and health benefits; developing recommendations with lasting benefits.”
Community members attending the meeting were concerned about the dangers posed by the Exit 37/38 southbound service plaza, particularly to workers who walk from the Riverside Green Line stop to the plaza. Last year, a worker was hit by a car and died. Several suggested that there should be a shuttle from Riverside to the Auburndale Commuter Rail station. Others were concerned that the proposal for a multimodal hub along the Framingham/Worcester line would exacerbate the traffic congestion on Park Road.
Ted Chapman, Project Manager of the Riverside Greenway Working Group, favors a way to connect Grove Street to Quinobequin Road, thereby making bicycle travel safer. He hopes that ultimately the study will improve and expand bicycle paths so that people can ride from Waltham to Western Massachusetts. Among the projects under consideration is the Newton-Intersection Improvements at Route 16 and Quinobequin Road. According to Josh Ostroff, Newton’s new Director of Transportation, “This project is in the preliminary design phase. Planning and Public Works staff will be meeting with MassDOT and the design team to advance the project, but there is currently no target date for final design or construction.”
State Representative Kay Khan, working together with State Senator Cynthia Creem, succeeded in earmarking $85 million in the Transportation Bond Bill at the end of the last legislative session to redesign and reconstruct all three Newton commuter rail stations, making them accessible and passenger-worthy. “I feel optimistic about the stations,” she said, noting that she will be working with the new Healey Administration to push for bond allocation for the project. Several of the attendees echoed her belief that renovating the three stations is essential to increasing reliance on public transportation.
MassDOT’s recording of the January 18 public meeting is here. Presentation slides and summary notes have not yet been posted. Watch for here for updates.
