Contact MEPA about Northern Avenue Bridge Project (Due June 9th)
On Wednesday, May 20th, WalkBoston participated in a MEPA “Virtual Site Visit” for the Northern Avenue Bridge in Boston. MEPA is accepting public comment on this project, and announced they have extended the deadline until June 9th. We encourage you to voice your opinion.
WalkBoston, LivableStreets, and the Boston Cyclists Union asked earlier this month on a Zoom Public Meeting that the City commit to a bridge design that is only open to pedestrians, bicycles, and emergency vehicles. Following that meeting, we testified at the Boston Transportation / Public Works Budget Hearing and asked the City Council to not approve the Northern Ave Bridge project in the budget until this commitment has been made. The scale of funding for safety projects throughout the city pale in comparison to the estimated dollars for the current iteration of this proposed bridge.
WalkBoston is working on a detailed comment letter on the project, but you can read some of our concerns in this post from earlier this month, “Speak Up for a People First Northern Avenue Bridge.”
Major issues:
- Bridge is being overbuilt for the stated purpose/need.
- Unclear how Harborwalk is integrated into bridge design.
- Current plan has private shuttles directly adjacent to people walking/biking; paint is not appropriate separation or protection on a new bridge.
How to submit feedback:
- Send an email with your comments by June 9th to:
MEPA Analyst Alex Strysky: alexander.strysky@mass.gov and cc: comments@walkboston.org