Natick Gets More Than $350,000 From State To Improve Intersections

NATICK, MA — Natick's getting a big boost to help the town improve its intersections with a chunk of money from the state aimed at helping communities with infrastructure costs.

Natick is receive $385,584 in funding for improving safety for pedestrians and bicyclists at 13 intersections, and is among 15 communities receiving $5.5 million in funding for the Complete Streets Funding Program. The funding was part of round one for the state program.

“We are pleased to work closely with the Commonwealth’s municipalities to build vibrant neighborhoods and communities that have access to safe and reliable travel while addressing local infrastructure and development priorities,” said Governor Charlie Baker in a statement. “Through our Complete Streets Program, cities and towns are able to design and develop transportation projects that address their unique needs and help people using all modes of travel get where they need to go.”

The work in Natick includes installing a pedestrian-activated signal at the intersection of West Central Street (Route 135) at Boden Lane, installing high-visibility marked crosswalks with pedestrian warning signage and flashing pedestrian beacons at several locations, and upgrading pedestrian signal and bicycle detection equipment at numerous intersections.

“We are very proud to announce the second round of funding for the Complete Streets Program,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito in a statement. “Our administration is committed to encouraging safe and reliable travel, and with our Complete Streets Program, municipalities are empowered to design and build infrastructure projects that improve safety and accessibility, while promoting livability and local economic development goals.”

A “complete street” is one that provides safe and accessible options for all travel modes and for all people, taking into account the ages and abilities of individuals. In September 2016, the Baker-Polito Administration announced the first round of awards from the Complete Streets Program to 11 communities which totaled more than $4.4 million.

The available funding for Complete Streets is $12.5 million to be used through Fiscal Years 2016 and 2017.

Photo via Shutterstock