New Ramp Connects I-95 to N² Innovation District

NEWTON, MA – The Massachusetts Department of Transportation last week opened its new ramp connecting the highway to the N² Innovation District, increasing accessibility to those who live and work in the mixed-use area along the Newton-Needham line.

The 500-acre area has been touted as a region of future economic and innovative growth; this ramp, which connects I-95 to Kendrick Street, is the first part of an interchange to provide easier access to employers, employees and residents.

"Employers, employees and residents have been waiting years for this new gateway to the N²
Innovation District and we fully expect improved access will help bring new businesses, jobs and tax
revenue to both communities," said Greg Reibman, president of the Newton-Needham Regional
Chamber, said in an announcement.

The N² district is home to companies like TripAdvisor, PTC, Turbine, Big Belly Solar, Verastem, Karyopharm Therapeutics, Grasshopper, SharkNinja and Building 36, and construction has begun on new buildings to welcome additional businesses to the area.

The new exits allow drivers to head southbound on I-95 toward Dedham from Kendrick and northbound to exit directly into the N² district. The region is currently undergoing an overhaul, which will include more commercial offices, restaurants, retail stores, hotels and new residential units in the coming years.

The roadway, known as Interchange 19, is the start of a number of infrastructure improvements to the area, such as the widening of roads and bridges and the creation of bike lanes and pedestrian access.

Several of these changes, including the Elliot Street Bridge construction, have already begun.

Photo submitted by the Newton-Needham Chamber