Wakefield Delegation Announces $246,587 Shared Streets/Spaces Grant

BOSTON—State Senator Jason Lewis and State Representatives Kate Lipper-Garabedian and Donald Wong are pleased to announce that the Town of Wakefield has been awarded a $246,587 Shared Streets and Spaces Program grant from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT).

This state grant program provides project funding to help Massachusetts cities and towns design and implement changes to streets and intersections to make them safer and more welcoming for all community members.

The Town of Wakefield will use their grant to realign the Oak Street, Green Street, and Greenwood Avenue five-way intersection and adjust curb lines to better define roadway alignment, remove significant portions of pavement, and create a new pocket park. In addition, pedestrian improvements are planned, including the installation of new sidewalks within the intersection, crosswalks, ADA-compliant curb ramps, a Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacon (RRFB), and pavement markings.

“I’m very pleased that the Town of Wakefield is receiving a Shared Streets and Spaces grant,” said State Senator Jason Lewis. “This funding will expand accessibility in the community and increase safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.”

“I am glad to see Wakefield receive this critical funding to improve the safety of the Town's roadways,” said State Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian. “The Shared Streets and Space program funding will improve the safety for vehicle drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists through new sidewalks, ADA-compliant curb ramps, and crosswalks.”

“I am glad the Town of Wakefield is receiving this grant money to improve and to create changes to our streets and walking spaces that will make our community a safer place,” said State Representative Donald Wong.

“The Oak Street, Green Street, and Greenwood Avenue Intersection Improvement is the first project within Wakefield’s recently adopted Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan to be implemented,” said Wakefield Town Administrator Stephen Maio. “The project was identified through a thorough public process with Wakefield’s residents, boards and committees. The project will provide much needed safety and ADA improvements as well as create a new pocket park for the area residents. We want to thank MassDOT for selecting our grant application.”

The Shared Streets and Spaces grant program is funded by the Massachusetts legislature.