Transportation
Master Plan Strategies 31-58
Embedded Files
Transportation is one of the few elements of the Master Plan that truly impacts everyone in the community on a daily basis. No matter what form of transportation a resident utilizes, each day starts and ends with a trip to a destination point accessed by walking, biking, driving, or taking public transportation. Most likely residents are using multiple forms of transportation to get around each day. The transportation network also helps connect residents to jobs, housing, municipal facilities, recreation fields, and open spaces across North Andover. As an integral component of community development and activity, the transportation system needs to be accommodating to all different modes of travel and accessible to people with different mobility needs. Connecting people to places is good for the local economy, good for civic life, and good for continuing the social connectivity of the residents of North Andover.
Transportation is one of the few elements of the Master Plan that truly impacts everyone in the community on a daily basis. No matter what form of transportation a resident utilizes, each day starts and ends with a trip to a destination point accessed by walking, biking, driving, or taking public transportation. Most likely residents are using multiple forms of transportation to get around each day. The transportation network also helps connect residents to jobs, housing, municipal facilities, recreation fields, and open spaces across North Andover. As an integral component of community development and activity, the transportation system needs to be accommodating to all different modes of travel and accessible to people with different mobility needs. Connecting people to places is good for the local economy, good for civic life, and good for continuing the social connectivity of the residents of North Andover.
Click any strategy below to reveal updates and progress.
Click any strategy below to reveal updates and progress.
Any strategies shown in green denote those that have been recently updated.
Any strategies shown in red denote those that have not yet been addressed or that require further input.
Strategy 31:
Strategy 31:
Evaluate sidewalk gaps and prioritize new sidewalks based on their ability to connect residents to schools, activity centers, civic spaces, and recreation and open spaces in town. - Last Update: December 11, 2023
Lead: Department of Public Works / Partners: Select Board
In September of 2023, the Town of North Andover was awarded $1,240,000 from the Commonwealth's MassWorks Infrastructure Grant Program, to fund construction of planned improvements at the intersection of Great Pond Road and Osgood Street (Route 125). The project, which is currently in a design phase funded by the Town's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation, will include include the realignment of the intersection to remove the existing right-turn slip lanes, replacement of the existing traffic signal and installation of accessible pedestrian signal equipment; construction of new wheelchair ramps and approximately 2,000 feet of sidewalk; drainage and utility modifications; stormwater infiltration; pavement marking and signing; and repaving. New sidewalks will be installed in front of the Great Pond Crossing shopping center / Mad Maggie's, connecting it to the boat launch on Great Pond Road, as well as stretches in front of Pentucket Bank and in between Commerce Way and Casa Blanca. - Updated 12/11/2023
In February of 2022 the Town's Planning Department and Department of Public Works presented a completed "sidewalk connectivity plan" to the Select Board that identifies critical gaps in the town's network of sidewalks, which will inform decision making for construction of new sidewalks, capital funding requests, and grant applications.
In Spring of 2021 the Town adopted a Complete Streets Policy, which is a first step toward being eligible for grant funding for capital projects that provide safer access to pedestrians, bicyclists, users of mass transit, and vehicle drivers of all ages and abilities.
The Town then hired TEC as a consultant to develop a prioritization plan of projects, which was completed in February of 2021.
In July of 2022, MassDOT awarded $397,271 in Complete Streets grant funding to the Town of North Andover to reconstruct the intersection of Chadwick, High, and Sutton Street. The project, which was completed in the summer of 2024, includes realignment of High Street and Chadwick Street to create two (2) standard T-Intersections, provide new sidewalks with ADA-compliant ramps, create a new crosswalk at Columbia Road, and restriping and repaving of the project area.
For more information on the Town's efforts with respect to Complete Streets, click here.
In early December 2020, the Town was awarded a Shared Streets and Spaces grant from MassDOT in the amount of $200,926 to construct approximately 1,100 new feet of sidewalk along Main Street (between Elm and Third Street) in order to provide better and safer connections among a number of key civic uses: Stevens Memorial Library, North Andover Middle School, St. Michaels Church and School, and surrounding neighborhoods. This project was completed in summer of 2021.
A concept design for planned improvements to the intersection of Great Pond Road and Osgood Street (Route 125), which will include a new sidewalk connection in front of the Great Pond Crossing shopping center / Mad Maggie's, connecting it to the boat launch on Great Pond Road, as well as new stretches of sidewalks in front of Pentucket Bank and in between Commerce Way and Casa Blanca. Click image to enlarge.
Strategy 32:
Strategy 32:
Leverage the Town’s sidewalk maintenance funds with Community Preservation Act-eligible projects to expand the amount of funding available to improving connections to and from open space and recreation areas. - Last Update: December 11, 2023
Lead: Community Preservation Committee / Partners: Select Board, Department of Public Works
In September of 2023, the Town of North Andover was awarded $1,240,000 from the Commonwealth's MassWorks Infrastructure Grant Program, to fund construction of planned improvements at the intersection of Great Pond Road and Osgood Street (Route 125). The project, which is currently in a design phase funded by the Town's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation, will include include the realignment of the intersection to remove the existing right-turn slip lanes, replacement of the existing traffic signal and installation of accessible pedestrian signal equipment; construction of new wheelchair ramps and approximately 2,000 feet of sidewalk; drainage and utility modifications; stormwater infiltration; pavement marking and signing; and repaving. New sidewalks will be installed in front of the Great Pond Crossing shopping center / Mad Maggie's, connecting it to the boat launch on Great Pond Road, as well as stretches in front of Pentucket Bank and in between Commerce Way and Casa Blanca. - Updated 12/11/2023
In summer 2021, the Planning Department revived its efforts to identify sidewalk gaps and prioritize areas for new sidewalk construction, in order to inform future capital spending on sidewalks. Many Community Preservation Act project areas align with proposed sidewalk construction, including connections to the Weir Hill parking lot on Stevens Street and Glennie Woodlot on Dale Street.
In 2019, the Town completed the Mills to Hills Trail, which was developed with Community Preservation Act funds. This trail connects the mills section of the downtown to Weir Hill Reservation via sidewalk and off-road trail routes. Sidewalk connectivity planning is being undertaken to prioritize and identify funding for sidewalk construction throughout town, including the on-road sections of the Mills to Hills Trail.
Strategy 33:
Strategy 33:
Knit together Out Country with the commercial and civic centers in the northern portion of town by improving signage, sidewalk and trail connections, and bike facilities. - Last Update: January 6, 2025
Lead: Department of Public Works
In March of 2024, the Town issued a request for proposals (RFP) to qualified consultants to help it develop a wayfinding master plan that will, among other things, design signage that can direct residents and visitors to locations of interest throughout Town, and determine locations for such signage to be installed. - Updated 4/8/2024
In May of 2024, the Town contracted with KMA Design to help it in developing a Wayfinding Master Plan. Work on this project will begin in June 2024. - Updated 6/10/2024
On January 6, 2025, the Planning Department provided an update to the Select Board about progress on the Wayfinding Master Plan. - Updated 1/6/2025
In late 2019, the Community and Economic Development Division contracted with BETA, Inc to develop a Downtown Improvement Master Plan. This Master Plan provided recommended designs and placement for wayfinding around town that would direct people to the Downtown area.
In late 2020, the Town began conceptual planning for a rail trail that would extend from the High School driveway on Osgood Street down the National Grid utility right of way to Marbleridge Road, with potential extensions in the future. In early 2022, the Community and Economic Development Division worked with Stantec to begin early conceptual planning of the rail and identify possible alternative routes to the former railroad right of way. Stantec is preparing documentation of this proposed project to submit to MassDOT, in order for MassDOT to determine if there is a need for the project that would justify state or federal funding.
In fall 2021, the Town contracted with TEC, Inc. to craft a Complete Streets Prioritization Plan. The Plan offers suggestions for connecting Out Country with areas of concentrated development through extending sidewalks east along Great Pond Road from the Old Center, east on Dale Street to Smolak Farms, south down Hillside Road to Route 114, and along Abbot Street to the Sargent School. In February 2022, the Complete Streets Prioritization Plan was completed and presented to the Select Board. In March 2022, MassDOT approved the Complete Streets Prioritization Plan, allowing the Town to pursue a Complete Streets Construction Grant for pedestrian improvements and realignment of the Sutton Street, Chadwick Street, and High Street intersection.
In February of 2022 the Town's Planning Department and Department of Public Works presented a completed "sidewalk connectivity plan" to the Select Board that identifies critical gaps in the town's network of sidewalks, which will inform decision making for construction of new sidewalks, capital funding requests, and grant applications. The Sidewalk Connectivity Plan reiterated many of the connectivity goals of the Complete Streets Prioritization Plan, but also included recommendations to connect Chestnut Street with the Sargent School via sidewalks on Rea Street and Holly Ridge Road.
Planning Department Staff Planner Zach Melcher provides an update to the Select Board on progress related to the Wayfinding Master Plan - January 6, 2025
Strategy 34:
Adopt a Complete Streets Policy and apply to MassDOT’s Complete Streets Funding Program to secure funding for a Complete Streets Prioritization Plan. - Last Update: September 9, 2024
Strategy 34:
Adopt a Complete Streets Policy and apply to MassDOT’s Complete Streets Funding Program to secure funding for a Complete Streets Prioritization Plan. - Last Update: September 9, 2024
Lead: Select Board / Partners: Department of Public Works, Planning Board, Conservation Commission, MassDOT
In Spring of 2021 the Town adopted a Complete Streets Policy, which is a first step toward being eligible for grant funding for capital projects that provide safer access to pedestrians, bicyclists, users of mass transit, and vehicle drivers of all ages and abilities. The Town then hired TEC as a consultant to develop a prioritization plan of projects. The Complete Streets Prioritization Plan was completed and adopted in February 2022, with MassDOT approving the Plan in March 2022. To view the Plan and for more information on the Town's efforts with respect to Complete Streets, click here.
In July of 2022 the Town was awarded a MassDOT Complete Streets grant of $397,271 to reconfigure and improve the intersection of Sutton, Chadwick and High Street. Completed in summer of 2024, the project included removal of the west leg of Chadwick Street and realignment of the High Street northbound approach to create a standard T-intersection with Sutton Street, creating a new T-intersection with Chadwick Street intersecting High Street, and eliminating areas of conflict between pedestrians and a high-speed turning vehicles. The prior existing crosswalks were relocated across Sutton Street and High Street and new ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps were constructed. The existing sidewalk along the south side of Sutton Street through the project limits were reconstructed. A rapid flashing beacon was installed across Sutton Street. - Updated 7/13/2022, and again on 9/9/2024
Click image to view enlarged version.
Strategy 35:
Strategy 35:
Continue the practice of working with the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission and MassDOT to identify and fund Safe Routes to School infrastructure improvements.
Lead: Department of Public Works / Partners: School Department, Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC)
Strategy 36:
Strategy 36:
Evaluate the feasibility of increasing crosswalk frequency and visibility on major travel corridors such as Route 114, Mass. Ave, Route 125, and Chickering Road. - Last Update: November 4, 2024
Lead: Department of Public Works / Partners: MassDOT
In October of 2024, the Select Board adopted goals for Fiscal Year 2026, which includes "Increase signage and crosswalk signals around our school entrances. Improved safety and visibility at intersections and crosswalks, especially near our schools but also in neighborhoods that could benefit from improved signage. (ie. Main Street at 125 and nearby crosswalks, High and Water Street). - Updated 11/4/2024
In September of 2023, the Town of North Andover was awarded $1,240,000 from the Commonwealth's MassWorks Infrastructure Grant Program, to fund construction of planned improvements at the intersection of Great Pond Road and Osgood Street (Route 125). The project, which is currently in a design phase funded by the Town's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation, will include include the realignment of the intersection to remove the existing right-turn slip lanes, replacement of the existing traffic signal and installation of accessible pedestrian signal equipment; construction of new wheelchair ramps and approximately 2,000 feet of sidewalk; drainage and utility modifications; stormwater infiltration; pavement marking and signing; and repaving. New sidewalks will be installed in front of the Great Pond Crossing shopping center / Mad Maggie's, connecting it to the boat launch on Great Pond Road, as well as stretches in front of Pentucket Bank and in between Commerce Way and Casa Blanca. The intersection will include installation of new pedestrian signals with crosswalks. - Updated 12/11/2023
In July of 2022 the Town was awarded a MassDOT Complete Streets grant of $397,271 to reconfigure and improve the intersection of Sutton, Chadwick and High Street. The project includes removal of the west leg of Chadwick Street and realignment of the High Street northbound approach to create a standard T-intersection with Sutton Street, creating a new T-intersection with Chadwick Street intersecting High Street, and eliminating areas of conflict between pedestrians and a high-speed turning vehicles. The existing crosswalks will be relocated across Sutton Street and High Street and new ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps will be constructed. The existing sidewalk along the south side of Sutton Street through the project limits will be reconstructed. A rapid flashing beacon (such as an RRFB) will be installed across Sutton Street. - Updated July 13, 2022
In early 2021, North Andover received a MassDevelopment Real Estate Technical Assistance Grant, which the Town used to contract with Nitsch Engineering and Innes Associates to conduct a Route 125 Corridor Study. The study proposes adding crosswalks across Route 125 at its intersections with Great Pond Road, Commerce Way, and Osgood Landing, as well as improving crossings over side streets where they intersect with Route 125.
In spring 2021, MassDOT presented its 25% design proposal for Route 114 improvements to the Planning Board. The Route 114 improvements include multiple new and improved crosswalks on the corridor, as well as other pedestrian infrastructure. MassDOT held a public hearing on the project in fall 2021, which can be viewed here.
Strategy 37:
Strategy 37:
Work with FONAT to evaluate and prioritize off-street trail development, connections, and trail crossings to and through open spaces and recreation areas.
Lead: Department of Public Works / Partners: Friends of North Andover Trails (FONAT)
The Mills to Hills Trail was completed in 2019, with help from FONAT. The trail connects open space at the mills, with the High School recreation fields, and trails at Weir Hill.
In February 2022, FONAT applied to the Community Preservation Committee for funding to build boardwalks at Mazurenko Farms and bridges at trails proposed 635 Osgood Street. The North Andover High School Athletics Department applied to the Community Preservation Committee for funding to build new trails at 635 Osgood Street and improve existing trails on abutting open space properties. The Community Preservation Committee recommended funding for these projects to the 2022 Annual Town Meeting.
Strategy 38:
Strategy 38:
Couple sidewalk and crosswalk improvements with pedestrian-scale lighting to increase visibility and safety. - Last Update: April 16, 2025
Lead: Department of Public Works
In early 2023, the Town secured $625,000 in funding, split between American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and the North Andover Business and Economic Development Fund of the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) to fund design/engineering of the streetscape improvements outlined in the concepts developed through the Downtown Improvement Master Plan process. The Town will next draft and issue a request for proposals (RFP) to procure the services of a qualified engineering firm that can perform this work. As contemplated in the conceptual design of streetscape improvements, the RFP will direct respondents to account for designing the location of, and specifying, pedestrian-scale lighting throughout the Downtown. - Updated February 7, 2023
The design and engineering of downtown streetscape improvements project now has a dedicated page on the Town's website. Engineering firm Green International Affiliates is under contract to develop construction plans for these improvements. Survey work began in April of 2025. - Updated 4/16/2025
The Downtown Improvement Master Plan completed in spring 2021, provides design recommendations for multiple new crosswalks downtown and new streetlights, which will improve safety and visibility. Street improvements proposed in this Plan will have to follow the repaving of Main Street and Water Street, which is expected to occur in the next few years.
Strategy 39:
Strategy 39:
Discourage traffic in residential neighborhoods using context-sensitive roadway design and traffic calming solutions. - Last Update: 7/13/22
Lead: Department of Public Works
In July of 2022 the Town was awarded a MassDOT Complete Streets grant of $397,271 to reconfigure and improve the intersection of Sutton, Chadwick and High Street. The project includes removal of the west leg of Chadwick Street and realignment of the High Street northbound approach to create a standard T-intersection with Sutton Street, creating a new T-intersection with Chadwick Street intersecting High Street, and eliminating areas of conflict between pedestrians and a high-speed turning vehicles. The existing crosswalks will be relocated across Sutton Street and High Street and new ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps will be constructed. The existing sidewalk along the south side of Sutton Street through the project limits will be reconstructed. A rapid flashing beacon (such as an RRFB) will be installed across Sutton Street. - Updated July 13, 2022
In spring 2021, the North Andover Select Board adopted a Complete Streets Policy, which states that street improvements and maintenance projects must utilize context-sensitive design and account for multimodal street use by people of all ages and abilities. The Town worked with TEC, Inc to develop its Complete Streets Prioritization Plan, which was completed in February 2022. The Plan incorporated recommendations that utilize traffic calming and support pedestrian safety, including crosswalks on Clarendon Street, Water Street, and High Street and realignment of numerous intersections to reduce pedestrian-vehicle conflicts and crossing distances for pedestrians.
In summer 2021, the North Andover Planning Department began reviewing its Subdivision Rules and Regulations, in order to update them to reflect the goals of the Town's Complete Streets Policy.
In spring of 2021, the Planning Department, with support from the Department of Public Works, began developing a Sidewalk Connectivity Plan. This plan proposes the addition of sidewalks in many residential areas, which will provide a traffic calming effect, as well as potentially reducing vehicle travel by making pedestrian travel easier.
Strategy 40:
Strategy 40:
Work with MassDOT to incorporate welcoming and beautification improvements to the anticipated improvement project along Route 114.
Lead: Department of Public Works / Partners: MassDOT
The Town continues to coordinate with MassDOT to incorporate this strategy into its planned Route 114 Improvement Project (Project 608095). This project involves traffic safety improvements, increasing street capacity, and adding a shared-use path on the stretch of Route 114 running from Stop & Shop to the intersection of Route 114 and Route 125.
To view a recording of a design public hearing held for this project in October of 2021, and to to view related documents, click here.
Strategy 41:
Strategy 41:
Evaluate safety and congestion improvements along key roadway corridors and intersection improvements to promote safer travel speeds, improve safety at key intersections, and create a safer and more connected sidewalk network. This should include conducting /traffic counts on arterial roadways to ensure data is recent and relevant. - Last Update: June 9, 2025
Lead: Department of Public Works / Partners: MassDOT, Police Department/
The Town is currently working with engineering firm Vanasse & Associates on a post-project traffic study related to the Amazon project located on Osgood Street. This study, required by the Planning Board's approval of the project, comes one year after full occupancy was achieved at the Amazon facility and will, among other things, obtain turning-movement and vehicle classification counts (TMCs) for a three-hour weekday morning period (6:00 to 9:00 AM) and a three-hour weekday evening period (4:00 to 7:00 PM) at the following intersections (the “Monitored Intersections”): - Updated 6/9/2025
Osgood Street at Bradford Street
Osgood Street at the 1600 Osgood Street North Driveway
Osgood Street at the 1600 Osgood Street North Central Driveway
Osgood Street at the 1600 Osgood Street South Central Driveway
Osgood Street at the 1600 Osgood Street South Driveway/Gas Station Driveway
Osgood Street at Great Pond Road and the Casa Blanca Driveway
Osgood Street at Sutton Street 8. Osgood Street at Chickering Road
Sutton Street at Main Street and North Main Street
Main Street at Waverly Road
In April of 2023, the Police Department conducted a study of vehicle traffic by placing a traffic counter at 466 Massachusetts Avenue for 20 days. The results of the study showed that the average number of vehicles traveling by the counter over a seven day period was 6,148; a 4% decrease from a traffic study conducted on Massachusetts Avenue in October of 2022, and a 5% decrease from a comparable study conducted in April of 2018. - Updated May 3, 2023
In early 2021, North Andover received a MassDevelopment Real Estate Technical Assistance Grant, which the Town used to contract with Nitsch Engineering and Innes Associates to conduct a Route 125 Corridor Study. This study incorporated site visits, traffic counts, and a Road Safety Audit to assess safety and congestion, as well as consider potential improvements. The intersection of Sutton Street and Osgood Street was found to have a history of collisions that would meet the criteria for Highway Safety Improvement Program funding to improve the intersection. Numerous recommendations were made for intersection improvements, including narrowing lanes, adding turning lanes, altering traffic signalization, and support for multimodal travel.
Assessments of traffic along Route 114, near its intersection with Route 125, have played a significant role in informing MassDOT's Route 114 improvement.
The Complete Streets Prioritization Plan that was developed by TEC, Inc for the Town in 2022, includes 10 recommended intersection reconstructions that improve safety, incorporate traffic calming, and enhance pedestrian accommodations.
In July of 2022 the Town was awarded a MassDOT Complete Streets grant of $397,271 to reconfigure and improve the intersection of Sutton, Chadwick and High Street. Completed in summer of 2024, the project included removal of the west leg of Chadwick Street and realignment of the High Street northbound approach to create a standard T-intersection with Sutton Street, creating a new T-intersection with Chadwick Street intersecting High Street, and eliminating areas of conflict between pedestrians and a high-speed turning vehicles. The prior existing crosswalks were relocated across Sutton Street and High Street and new ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps were constructed. The existing sidewalk along the south side of Sutton Street through the project limits were reconstructed. A rapid flashing beacon was installed across Sutton Street. - Updated 7/13/2022, and again on 9/9/2024
Strategy 42:
Strategy 42:
Evaluate the potential for including wider shoulders on roadways to improve safety for cyclists where dedicated bike lanes or multi-use pathways may not be feasible.
Lead: Department of Public Works
Strategy 43:
Strategy 43:
Develop stronger zoning language and incentives to encourage shared access points, curb cut consolidation, and connected parking across developed parcels. - Last Update: May 9, 2022
Lead: Planning Board / Partners: Community & Economic Development, Department of Public Works
In late 2021, the Town was awarded a $75,000 Housing Choice Grant under the One Stop for Community Growth program to develop updated zoning language for Downtown. The Town hired planning consultant Innes Associates to assist it in conducting this process, which is currently underway. - Updated May 9, 2022
Strategy 44:
Strategy 44:
Work with MVPC to conduct a transportation corridor study for each of the entry points off I-495 into North Andover to create a coordinated transportation solution for access into town.
Lead: Department of Public Works / Partners: Community & Economic Development, Planning Board, Select Board
In early 2021, the Town received a MassDevelopment Real Estate Technical Assistance Grant, which it used to contract with Nitsch Engineering and planning consultant Innes Associates to conduct a Route 125 Corridor Study. The study proposes numerous traffic safety and aesthetic improvements along the corridor.
Strategy 45:
Strategy 45:
Pursue a more proactive approach to securing funding every five to seven years for local North Andover transportation projects through the Merrimack Valley Transportation Improvement Program.
Lead: Select Board / Partners: Department of Public Works, Community & Economic Development, Town Manager
Corridor Improvements on Route 114, between Waverly Road & Willow/Mill Street are included in the State's 2025-2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). This project will upgrade traffic signals, add sidewalks and formalize pedestrian crossings, add turning lanes, bicycle accommodations, and stormwater treatment facilities. The projected cost of this project, as of July 2024, is over $50 million. Construction is expected to begin in summer of 2025. Links with additional information about this project:
Strategy 46:
Strategy 46:
Extend high visibility crosswalks to additional intersections and mid-block crossing locations along Main Street and Water Street. - Last Update: April 16, 2025
Lead: Department of Public Works
In October of 2024, the Select Board adopted goals for Fiscal Year 2026, which includes "Increase signage and crosswalk signals around our school entrances. Improved safety and visibility at intersections and crosswalks, especially near our schools but also in neighborhoods that could benefit from improved signage. (ie. Main Street at 125 and nearby crosswalks, High and Water Street). - Updated 11/4/2024
In early 2023, the Town secured $625,000 in funding, split between American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and the North Andover Business and Economic Development Fund of the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) to fund design/engineering of the streetscape improvements outlined in the concepts developed through the Downtown Improvement Master Plan process, which include additional and more more visible/easily accessible crosswalks along Main and Water Street. The Town will next draft and issue a request for proposals (RFP) to procure the services of a qualified engineering firm that can perform this work. - Updated February 7, 2023
The design and engineering of downtown streetscape improvements project now has a dedicated page on the Town's website. Engineering firm Green International Affiliates is under contract to develop construction plans for these improvements. Survey work began in April of 2025. - Updated 4/16/2025
The Downtown Improvement Master Plan, which was completed in spring 2021, provided a conceptual design of the Downtown area. The recommended improvements included improvements to existing sidewalks and six new sidewalks, including at intersections with Saunders Street, School Street, First Street, Second Street, and Merrimack Street.
Proposed crosswalk improvements from the Downtown Improvement Master Plan are reiterated in the Complete Streets Prioritization Plan that was being drafted in early 2022. MassDOT approved the Plan in March 2022, making the Town eligible for up to $400,000 in funding for street improvement projects.
Strategy 47:
Strategy 47:
Evaluate the possibility of changing on-street parking configurations as a way to increase sidewalk widths, landscape buffers, or add on-street bike facilities along parts of Main Street - Last update: May 2, 2022
Lead: Department of Public Works / Partners: Community & Economic Development, Select Board
During the development of the Downtown Improvements Master Plan (completed in 2021), consultant Beta Group worked with the Town's Planning Department and Department of Public Works to contemplate different parking configurations along Main Street, including the use of angled parking in certain locations. These ideas were discussed during public meetings and forums. Ultimately, an angled parking scenario was not adopted in the final concepts. Updated: May 2, 2022
Strategy 48:
Strategy 48:
Look for opportunities to construct curb bump-outs, particularly for mid-block crossing locations along Main Street - Last update: April 16, 2025
Lead: Department of Public Works
In early 2023, the Town secured $625,000 in funding, split between American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and the North Andover Business and Economic Development Fund of the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) to fund design/engineering of the streetscape improvements outlined in the concepts developed through the Downtown Improvement Master Plan process. The Town will next draft and issue a request for proposals (RFP) to procure the services of a qualified engineering firm that can perform this work. - Updated February 7, 2023
The design and engineering of downtown streetscape improvements project now has a dedicated page on the Town's website. Engineering firm Green International Affiliates is under contract to develop construction plans for these improvements. Survey work began in April of 2025. - Updated 4/16/2025
The Downtown Improvements Master Plan (completed in 2021) provides conceptual designs, informed by public input, that show improved and safer schemes for mid-block crossings along Main Street. Updated: May 2, 2022
Strategy 49:
Strategy 49:
Hire a consultant to evaluate and recommend possible streetscape improvements along Main Street and Water Street. - Last Update: April 16, 2025
Lead: Department of Public Works / Partners: Select Board, Community & Economic Development
The Town entered into a contract with engineering firm Green International Affiliates to design and engineer streetscape improvements for downtown North Andover, which were initially conceived during the Downtown Improvement Master Plan process. The project is projected to begin in April of 2025 and run through all of calendar year 2026. - Updated 3/10/2025
The design and engineering of downtown streetscape improvements project now has a dedicated page on the Town's website. Survey work began in April of 2025. - Updated 4/16/2025
In early 2023, the Town secured $625,000 in funding, split between American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and the North Andover Business and Economic Development Fund of the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) to fund design/engineering of the streetscape improvements outlined in the concepts developed through the Downtown Improvement Master Plan process. The Town will next draft and issue a request for proposals (RFP) to procure the services of a qualified engineering firm that can perform this work. - Updated February 7, 2023
In October of 2024, the Town was awarded $675,000 from the State's MassWorks Infrastructure Program to support engineering/design of downtown streetscape improvements. Because $300,000 in ARPA funding (see bullet above) was reallocated from this project due to other competing priorities, the $675,000 grant will be leveraged against $325,000 from ECCF's Economic Development Fund (see bullet above), making for a project total of $1,000,000. - Updated 11/4/2024
The Downtown Improvement Master Plan, completed in spring of 2021 with the assistance of BETA Group (Engineering consulting firm), provides comprehensive conceptual designs informed by public input, for streetscape improvements along Main Street and Water Street. Updated May 9, 2022
Strategy 50:
Strategy 50:
Continue to plan for and implement undergrounding of utilities in the Downtown area. - Last Update: April 16, 2025
Lead: Department of Public Works / Partners: Select Board, Community & Economic Development
In early 2023, the Town secured $625,000 in funding, split between American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and the North Andover Business and Economic Development Fund of the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) to fund design/engineering of the streetscape improvements outlined in the concepts developed through the Downtown Improvement Master Plan process. The Town will next draft and issue a request for proposals (RFP) to procure the services of a qualified engineering firm that can perform this work. The RFP will direct respondents to account for design/implementation of undergrounding utilities in the Downtown area. - Updated February 7, 2023
In October of 2024, the Town was awarded $675,000 from the State's MassWorks Infrastructure Program to support engineering/design of downtown streetscape improvements. Because $300,000 in ARPA funding (see bullet above) was reallocated from this project due to other competing priorities, the $675,000 grant will be leveraged against $325,000 from ECCF's Economic Development Fund (see bullet above), making for a project total of $1,000,000. - Updated 11/4/2024
The design and engineering of downtown streetscape improvements project now has a dedicated page on the Town's website. Engineering firm Green International Affiliates is under contract to develop construction plans for these improvements. Survey work began in April of 2025. This project will contemplate and plan for potentially undergrounding utilities along Main and Water Streets- Updated 4/16/2025
The Downtown Improvement Master Plan, completed in spring of 2021 with the assistance of BETA Group (Engineering consulting firm), contemplates the undergrounding of utilities in the Downtown Area. As part of the process to complete this Plan, the Community and Economic Development office worked with the Planning Department and Department of Public Works to engage stakeholders (business and property owners, as well as residents) in the Downtown to educate them on the full scale of such an effort and to solicit input. The project team provided an update to the Select Board and the Town continues to collect a surcharge on utility rates provided by National Grid and Verizon, which would be used to fund this work. Updated May 9, 2022
Strategy 51:
Strategy 51:
Evaluate the effectiveness of changing zoning along Main Street to vary front setbacks to provide additional space for wider sidewalks, enhanced landscaping, and pedestrian gathering spaces. - Last Update: May 9, 2022
Lead: Planning Board / Partners: Community & Economic Development, Department of Public Works
In late 2021, the Town was awarded a $75,000 Housing Choice Grant under the One Stop for Community Growth program to develop updated zoning language for Downtown. The Town hired planning consultant Innes Associates to assist it in conducting this process, which is currently underway. Learn more by clicking here. - Updated May 9, 2022
Strategy 52:
Strategy 52:
Use consistent streetscape treatments and wayfinding signage to connect Downtown with the Mill District to encourage walking, gathering, shopping, and dining between both areas. - Last Update: November 4, 2024
Lead: Department of Public Works/ Partners: Select Board, Planning Board
In March of 2024, the Town issued a request for proposals (RFP) to qualified consultants to help it develop a wayfinding master plan that will, among other things, design signage that can direct residents and visitors to locations of interest throughout Town, and determine locations for such signage to be installed. - Updated 4/8/2024
In May of 2024, the Town contracted with KMA Design to help it in developing a Wayfinding Master Plan. Work on this project will begin in June 2024. - Updated 6/10/2024
In early 2023, the Town secured $625,000 in funding, split between American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and the North Andover Business and Economic Development Fund of the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) to fund design/engineering of the streetscape improvements outlined in the concepts developed through the Downtown Improvement Master Plan process. The Town will next draft and issue a request for proposals (RFP) to procure the services of a qualified engineering firm that can perform this work. - Updated February 7, 2023
In October of 2024, the Town was awarded $675,000 from the State's MassWorks Infrastructure Program to support engineering/design of downtown streetscape improvements. Because $300,000 in ARPA funding (see bullet above) was reallocated from this project due to other competing priorities, the $675,000 grant will be leveraged against $325,000 from ECCF's Economic Development Fund (see bullet above), making for a project total of $1,000,000. - Updated 11/4/2024
The Downtown Improvement Master Plan, completed in spring of 2021 with the assistance of BETA Group (Engineering consulting firm), provides comprehensive conceptual designs informed by public input, for streetscape improvements along Main Street and Water Street, as well as signage for key gateways around Town for directing traffic to downtown. Updated May 9, 2022
In winter 2022, the Town began identifying locations to prioritize for bus shelter locations, including proposed shelters for downtown. These bus shelters would serve the MVRTA system and would help to make transit ridership more convenient and attractive. Ongoing planning for this proposal in spring 2022 involved seeking input from key stakeholders, including the Select Board. Updated May 9, 2022
Strategy 53:
Strategy 53:
Repair existing brick sidewalks in Downtown to reduce tripping hazards and ice buildup. - Last Updated November 4, 2024
Lead: Department of Public Works
In early 2023, the Town secured $625,000 in funding, split between American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and the North Andover Business and Economic Development Fund of the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) to fund design/engineering of the streetscape improvements outlined in the concepts developed through the Downtown Improvement Master Plan process. The Town will next draft and issue a request for proposals (RFP) to procure the services of a qualified engineering firm that can perform this work. - Updated February 7, 2023
In October of 2024, the Town was awarded $675,000 from the State's MassWorks Infrastructure Program to support engineering/design of downtown streetscape improvements. Because $300,000 in ARPA funding (see bullet above) was reallocated from this project due to other competing priorities, the $675,000 grant will be leveraged against $325,000 from ECCF's Economic Development Fund (see bullet above), making for a project total of $1,000,000. - Updated 11/4/2024
The Downtown Improvement Master Plan, completed in spring of 2021 with the assistance of BETA Group (Engineering consulting firm), provided conceptual designs street improvements for Downtown. Public input indicated a majority of participants liked brick sidewalks, but a majority were in favor of replacing them with cement sidewalks with brick borders. Replacing brick sidewalks with cement, when the downtown area will be repaved as part of the Columbia Gas Street Restoration Project, will help to reduce the tripping and ice hazards associated with brick sidewalks.
Strategy 54:
Strategy 54:
Review pedestrian ramps and building entrances for universal accessibility and prioritize accessibility improvements. - Last Updated July 13, 2022
Lead: Department of Public Works
In January 2022, the Town received a grant of $52,000 from the Massachusetts Office of Disability to fund an Americans with Disabilities Act Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan.
In April 2022, the Town selected Northeast Independent Living Program (NILP) to conduct the evaluation and develop the Transition Plan.
In June of 2022, the Town completed this project, which includes an evaluation of 21 Town facilities and the Town's website for ADA compliance, an update to its ADA Policies and Procedures, and a Transition Plan that outlines suggested improvements to all facilities to ensure 100% ADA compliance. Click here to access these documents. - Updated July 13, 2022
Strategy 55:
Strategy 55:
Explore innovative ways to increase transportation services for seniors. - Last Updated May 11, 2023
Lead: Council on Aging / Partners: Select Board
Elder Services is currently in the process of increasing its driver staffing. Starting July 1, 2023, it will have one (1) full and one (1 )part-time driver, going from 34 hours of availability to 56 hours. This will address transportation to/from Town Meeting, the polls, National Night Out, and Fall Festival. - Updated 5/11/2023
North Andover Elder Services is currently working with the UMass Boston Center for Social & Demographic Research on Aging, Gerontology Institute on an "age friendly initiative" to develop a needs assessment that will include a demographic analysis, community forums, a sample survey, focus groups, and interviews. Part of this assessment will examine transportation and mobility.
North Andover Elder Services provides information on a variety of transportation options for seniors.
Strategy 56:
Strategy 56:
Continue to push for a new MBTA commuter rail station at the Osgood Landing site if and when a redevelopment proposal is in place that matches the community's vision and goal for the site. - Last Updated June 3, 2025
Lead: Select Board/ Partners: Planning Board, Community & Economic Development, and MBTA
In February 2024, the Select Board approved the use of $45,883 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to support the development of a study examining the feasibility of siting an MBTA Commuter Rail Station in North Andover. Combining these funds with a $75,000 State earmark, the Planning and Community Development Departments have contracted with Jacobs Engineering to assist the Town in producing this study. - Updated 2/29/2024
On June 2, 2025, Staff Planner Zach Melcher and consultant David Nelson (Jacobs Engineering) presented findings from the Commuter Rail Feasibility Study, which can be viewed in the video to the right. - Updated 6/9/2025
As part of an economic development bill, signed into law by Governor Charlie Baker in November of 2022, the Town received a $75,000 earmark for a "feasibility study on building a new Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority commuter rail station in the town of North Andover." - Updated 11/14/22
On Monday June 2, 2025, Staff Planner Zach Melcher and consultant David Nelson (Jacobs Engineering) present findings from the Commuter Rail Feasibility Study to the Select Board.
Strategy 57:
Strategy 57:
Improve MVRTA circulator routes and frequency of those routes as a way to increase ridership. - Last Updated September 1, 2024
Lead: Community & Economic Development/ Partners: MVRTA, Select Board
In May of 2024, MeVa was awarded a MassDOT Regional Transit Innovation Grant in the amount of $1.9 million, which will fund extended service along Route 14. Service will come from the Ward Hill Industrial Park in Haverhill, stop at the Amazon facility at 1600 Osgood Street, and continue down Osgood Street (Route 125). It will take a right on Sutton Street and extend all the way to the Lawrence MBTA Station. - Updated 5/22/2024
This service became effective starting on September 1, 2024. - Updated 9/1/2024
As a part of the Community Partnership Agreement, established between the Town and Amazon in early 2021 for the redevelopment of 1600 Osgood Street, Amazon agreed to become a member of the Merrimack Valley Transportation Management Association. Amazon will work with the MeVa (formerly MVRTA) to coordinate expanded bus service to 1600 Osgood Street. If additional public transit proves insufficient, Amazon has agreed to provide a shuttle between 1600 Osgood Street and the Lawrence Commuter Rail station.
Strategy 58:
Strategy 58:
Evaluate potential ridership and cost impacts of adding a second (later) departure time for commuter buses to Boston.
Lead: Community and Economic Development/ Partners: MVRTA, Select Board
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