MA Officials Must Approve At-Grade Option for I-90 Project

CLF calls on leaders to heed community consensus

Photo: Charles River, Boston

Photo: Charles River, Boston

October 30, 2020 (BOSTON, MA) – Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) is calling on Massachusetts transportation officials to select the all at-grade option in the redesign of I-90 through the Allston neighborhood. The massive project will have implications for the neighborhood for years to come, and the at-grade option provides the most benefits with the least environmental impact.

“It is past time for MassDOT to heed the consensus among Mayor Walsh, transportation experts, and affected neighborhoods that the all at-grade approach is the best one for Boston, for commuters, and for the river,” said Bradley Campbell, President of Conservation Law Foundation. “The Baker Administration should start working for rather than against its own vision for the future of transportation in the Commonwealth.” 

The all at-grade design should avoid roadway impacts to the Charles River while incorporating elements like a living shoreline, a parkway with large trees to add shade and reduce heat, and enhanced pedestrian and bicyclist access to the river’s edge. This improved surface option is also designed to ensure that two-track commuter rail service on the Worcester Line remains in service during construction.

CLF detailed its concerns in a letter sent to federal and state officials today.

Experts are available for further comment.

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