Complete Streets

Post date: Aug 10, 2017 12:33:50 PM

We are nearing completion of our Phase 2 report for the MassDOT Complete Streets program. Over the summer, Tim, Andrew and I have been working with BRPC to analyze and price potential projects that fit into the program framework. I expect the report will be completed by the end of August and submitted to DOT for review at that point. (Will share here that copy going to DOT.) Assuming the program continues to exist and be funded, we are hoping to pursue funding in one of the application rounds in 2018 for projects. Right now, the top project on the list is a roundabout at Water Street and Main Street intersection. I expect at one of our meetings in September we will have an authorization form for use of our Chapter 90 funds for design work. Once that is complete (and assuming no surprises in design), we can look at overall cost and how to assemble a funding package - bearing in mind that Complete Streets could bring $400,000 with much less hassle than a traditional DOT scheduled and funded project. Interestingly, this program is built for speed with an expectation that the project be completed within a year of awarding of funds.