Why does the project include widening Interstate
93?
Interstate 93 has four lanes in each direction south of the Wilmington/Tewksbury
line. The breakdown lane is currently used during peak commuting times between Exit
41 and Exit 48. This has been considered a temporary measure while studies were
underway to add lanes in MA and NH. Adding a lane in each direction on Interstate
93 south of Interstate 495 will help manage existing traffic volume more efficiently
and improve travel safety.
Why aren't you adding a lane all the way to
New Hampshire?
There are long-range plans to extend the four-lane section to the MA/NH state border,
but no funding, design or permitting has been approved for this improvement to date.
What are the impacts of widening the highway
on wetlands and greenspace?
The project is looking at different alternatives that will meet state and local
goals. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is leading the environmental review
with input from federal, state and local agencies such as the Army Corps of Engineers,
EPA, DEP and the local Conservation Commissions. To satisfy FHWA's requirements,
the Highway Division must identify the least environmentally damaging alternative. The Highway Division
is looking at locating the new lanes in the current grassy median to avoid encroachment
on wetlands and is evaluating other options that will minimize environmental impacts.
Will the new interchange bring more traffic
to local streets and neighborhoods, such as Ballardvale?
Connections to the local roadway network and the effects of the new interchange
on local traffic operations will be part of the evaluation by FHWA and the Highway Division.
One purpose of the project is to provide a more direct connection from the Ballardvale
area to I-93 and reduce the need for cut-through traffic in the adjacent residential
neighborhoods. In addition, with the extension of the fourth lane to Interstate
495, traffic flow will improve on Interstate 93, relieving congestion on the local
road system.
Are there any mass transit improvements associated
with this project?
The Highway Division and EOHED are coordinating with regional public/private Transportation
Management Associations, the MBTA and other regional transit agencies to look at
opportunities to tie into or expand existing services. The MBTA has made double
tracking the Haverhill Commuter Rail Line south of Andover a priority and will implement
the work once funding is secured. Double tracking will enhance service for commuters.
A goal of the project is to support the communities' goals for sustainable development
and mixed-use projects, minimize environmental impacts and follow smart growth principles.
How will this project affect traffic on I-495?
Traffic congestion on I-93 often results in long queues on the I-495 off-ramps to
I-93 south during morning commuter hours. These queues regularly extend back onto
I-495. The proposed improvements are expected to reduce congestion on I-93, which
in turn will reduce or eliminate queuing on the I-495 ramps.
How will public input be used in the design
process?
The federal review process includes a public Scoping Meeting and a hearing on the
Final Environmental Impact Statement. State review began when the Secretary of Environmental
Affairs issued a Certificate on February 8, 2008 outlining a scope of work for the
project. Because the added lanes were not in the original filing, the Highway Division filed
a Notice of Project Change (NPC) with MEPA that triggered a 30-day public comment
period. The project team will schedule public workshops where stakeholders will
be able to review information and provide input in writing. The public hearing on
the FEIR/FEIS is another opportunity for public input. The project website will
include reports, meeting information and opportunities to comment on alternatives.
You can find more information on the environmental review process in
About the Project, including the anticipated schedule, and
other project updates on the
Meetings & News
page.
How will this project affect development in
the communities?
A goal of the project is to support the communities' visions. The Highway Division and EOHED
are working closely with Andover, Tewksbury and Wilmington. Project staff attend
regular meetings of the state's I-93 Working Group and the Tri-Town Development Task Force to
ensure project activities are coordinated with local development activities. Visit
the
Community Planning
page to learn more about local development initiatives.