Post date: Feb 15, 2021 3:5:12 PM
Good Afternoon Jason,
Following up and as discussed, I wanted to bring to your attention that the Route 2 bridge over the Green River will be advertised for construction bids around mid-March, 2021.
During the design process, MassDOT held a Design Public Hearing at the Williamstown Town Hall. Unfortunately, this was very poorly attended. Only 1 citizen attended, and no public officials attended. MassDOT did reach out to at least one town official after this meeting to advise them of some important aspects of the project. Mainly that there would be roughly 5 short term (anticipated 24 hours or less) road closures with traffic detoured over Cole Ave and North Hoosac Road into North Adams. The closures are anticipated to be needed for the erection of bridge beams on 4 occasions and during the initial curing of the concrete deck in stage 2.
MassDOT is aware that Route 2 is heavily traveled and has also included language in the specifications to limit traffic disruptions during construction. Our Traffic Management Plan calls for 2 lanes of traffic to be maintained during construction. No work that would interrupt these lanes is allowed during the morning and afternoon commute. Short term lane closures in between the morning and afternoon commute, may be allowed with permission of MassDOT, on a limited basis for delivery of materials and equipment only. Certain work that is anticipated to disrupt traffic is proposed to be done at night. This work would only be done Sunday night thru Thursday night.
Once the contract is awarded, District One will hold a pre-construction conference. At this meeting, the town of Williamstown will have another opportunity to share construction related concerns.
My understanding is current schedule shows multiple years construction, as there are complex utilities relocations. The first year will be mostly utilities’ work related (minimum bridge work), followed by 4 years of construction seasons.
Thank you anticipated for your understanding. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions regarding this project.
Thanks-Francisca
Francisca Heming
District Highway Director
MassDOT – Highway- District 1