Beverly Intersection Improvement Gets $1.75 Million State Boost

BEVERLY, MA — The intersection of Sohier Road and Tozer Road is in line for a big safety and accessibility upgrade with the help of a $1.75 million MassWorks grant.

The grant, awarded as part of the state's Partnership for Recovery initiative, will assist plans to make the intersection more pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly as well as support the 77-unit Anchor Point housing facility.

The reconstruction includes the addition of a sidewalk, pedestrian island, crosswalks, narrowed lanes, a left turn pocket on Sohier, increased roadway markings, signage and drainage improvements.

The project is scheduled to begin in the spring.

"We are thrilled to receive this grant award that will make the Sohier and Tozer Roads intersection much safer for pedestrians, bicyclists, drivers and especially for all the neighborhood kids," Beverly Mayor Michael Cahill said.

The Massworks Infrastructure Grant Program funds programs that produce housing, create jobs and generate private sector investment.

Anchor Point developer Harborlight Community Partners said the project will include 100 percent affordable housing.

"This grant award acknowledges a collaboration between the city of Beverly and Harborlight Community Partners to make significant improvements to this intersection, providing safer and more accessible routes for residents and commuters to the high school, middle school, Beverly Hospital, and the rest of this busy commercial and industrial area," said Darlene Wynne, Planning and Community Development Director.

"We are so grateful to the City of Beverly staff, elected officials and the MassWorks program for this investment," Andrew DeFranza, Executive Director, Haborlight Community Partners. "These intersection improvements will make the area safer for all cars while improving the access of Anchor Point residents to walkable education and employment opportunities.

This will have long-term benefits for the whole community."