Newton Under Construction This Week, What To Avoid

NEWTON, MA — Newton is under construction. Well, at least several parts of it are. Newton's Department of Public Works says crews will be out and about working on some 23 different spots around the city, updating everything from traffic signal installation to water main work, to roadway renovations.

In an effort to get the word out, DPW is taking a new approach: maps, schedules, and lots of social media.

"There is so much going on.. and we know it's a huge impact to residents," said DPW Director Jim McGonagle, "we just want to get the word out so they know what to expect."

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One new initiative is an interactive color coded map that shows what type of work is being done by DPW throughout the city.

"We just developed it, so it's a work in progress," he said, adding the city is happy to hear feedback on it.

"This time of year is when we're ramped up for construction," said McGonagle.

This is the busiest time of year for DPW he said. As crews tackle roadways and projects near the schools, especially to get those done before September.

Summer has traditionally the best time of year to get the work, done, he said, not only because it's easier to get work done in the sunshine rather than the snow, but traffic is usually a bit lighter in the summer as folks head out of town for vacation.

"But each year we've seen that traffic get progressively worse," he noted.

The majority of the work will take place at night, but the city says there will be traffic detours in a good handful of spots, so plan accordingly.

The spots to avoid?

"Any of the major arteries where we're doing work," said McGonagle.

Auburndale Square's work is just coming to an end next week but during the day until then, crews will be raising the castings and finishing up. "So that's a critical area," he said.

Crews will be redoing the sidewalks and curbing along Beacon Street before paving there. "So, if you can avoid that it would be best," he said.

The best thing to do, he said, is to follow the city on social media and check the website for updates.

Here's a closer look at this week's construction schedule.

And check out the new interactive map, which shows just where it's all taking place:

Image of the Needham Street Newton sign by Jenna Fisher/Patch. Image of the construction map via screen shot of the city's new interactive feature.