MassDOT Targets 8 Sites in 'Infra-Space' Redevelopment Program

By Michael Bednarsky

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation announced this that the new “Infra-Space” Program has received eight nominations representing seven communities for proposed redevelopment of space under elevated roads, bridges or viaducts.

The ideas came in response to a request for Information distributed to municipalities, non-profit institutions, developers and arts organizations asking for nominations and redevelopment project proposals where transportation infrastructure is a barrier to neighborhoods, pedestrians, urban resources and economic development opportunities.

“We are pleased to receive several innovative ideas from across the Commonwealth for rethinking and redeveloping these locations,” said MassDOT CEO Richard Davey in a statement. “We look forward to seeing public-private partnerships established to convert these areas and better serve each community.”

The eight nominations and locations received prior to the application deadline include the following:

• Boston: I-93 and Morrissey Blvd. underpasses, MBTA JFK/UMASS Station- art projects and public space enhancements, multi-modal transportation improvements. Charlesgate/Bowker Overpass- parking, lighting and art projects.
• Fall River: Braga Bridge/Battleship Cove- parking for waterfront attractions.
• Holyoke: Main St. beneath I-391- pathway between South Holyoke and Springdale, lighting and sculpture installations.
• New Bedford: I-195 over Route 18- recreational space, bicycle and pedestrian pathway, art projects.
• Somerville: I-93 and Route 28 intersections with Broadway, Gilman St., Cross Street East / Stop & Shop- gateways, art projects, and “freight farm” containers to encourage local food production.
• Springfield: I-91 viaduct around Springfield Parking Authority garages- surface parking improvements, paved walkways, bike racks, enhanced transportation services.
• Worcester: I-290 between Shrewsbury St. and Grafton St. - gateways, pedestrian and bicycle links, parking, art spaces, recreational uses.

MassDOT will be seeking project proposals for entering into public-private partnerships to improve underutilized spaces in the coming weeks.

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