Andover Awarded $3.3 Million Grant For Infrastructure Improvements

ANDOVER, MA — The town will receive $3.3 million in grants via a state program to support infrastructure improvements to the Essex Street corridor.

The state announced the funding as part of the FY24 Round of the Community One Stop for Growth that presented nearly $164 million in funding to 338 economic development projects in 161 communities this week. Andover was awarded funds via the MassWorks Infrastructure program.

The state grant will be used for improvements to Essex Street from Elm Square to Red Spring Road. The street serves as a "major connector road, or 'spine,' of the mixed-use corridor west of Main Street," according to the town.

"The anticipated improvements will aim to make the corridor more walkable, improve the safety of intersections along the route for all users, strengthen the connectivity between Downtown Andover and key destinations including the MBTA commuter rail station and Historic Mill District, and support future housing development," the town wrote.

Improvements include widening the sidewalk, adding bicycle accommodations, and improving drainage.

The town will also use the grant funds for implementing safety improvements at three intersections: Essex Street at Pearson Street/Railroad Avenue, Essex Street at School Street, and Essex Street at Ridge Street/Brook Street.

The infrastructure improvements will support development of the Old Town Yard site, a three-plus-acre parcel at 11 Lewis St.

The plans by Minco Development include 163 residential units, community amenities, and commercial/retail space, and represent an initial investment of about $70 million.

Read more about the project at the Town of Andover's website.