In January 2020 we reported that the Project Team submitted the Mount Auburn Street 25% Design to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), based on the conceptual design endorsed by the Town Council in November 2018.
We recently received comments from the various MassDOT departments that are responsible for review. The Project Team is coordinating with MassDOT to hold comment resolution meetings with the various MassDOT divisions, such as utility, right-of-way, traffic operations, and complete streets. Comment resolution is a prerequisite to holding an official 25% Design Public Hearing for the project. MassDOT representatives anticipate a late spring hearing.
We’ve listed below answers to some questions you may have.
Is the project still on schedule?
The project will be funded through the State’s Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Each year, the Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) evaluates and schedules proposed projects within the region for funding as part of the five year TIP capital plan. The Mount Auburn Street Complete Streets project continues to rank very high in the competitive TIP program.
Last year, funding for the Mount Auburn Street Complete Streets project was split between FY 2022 and FY 2023. The MPO is currently programming the State’s FY 2022 – 2026 TIP. Although discussions are ongoing, it is likely that the Mount Auburn Street Complete Streets project will be rescheduled to start in State FY 2023, owing to delays in obtaining 25% Design review comments.
A FY 2023 funding year would allow the project to begin construction in early 2023. The Project Team continues to coordinate with MassDOT on the project schedule for the next steps.
Are the catenary wires being removed?
Although we are aware that the MBTA is performing system-wide studies of removing catenary wires and replacing their fleet as part of ongoing MBTA capital planning, we have been instructed to continue our design assuming the catenary poles and wires will remain in place. We are able to adjust our design and plans should additional direction be provided to the Project Team.
Where can I view the 25% Design Plans?
After the comment resolution process is completed, we will post the 25% Design plans to the project website. The 25% Design plans will not incorporate comments or changes that arise during comment resolution. Per MassDOT procedures, these comments would be addressed during 75% Design.
How will I hear about the 25% Design Public Hearing and what is the format?
The 25% Design Public Hearing will be held by MassDOT and adhere to its format and requirements. In addition to meeting the MassDOT advertising requirements, the Project Team will also provide notification through the Mount Auburn Street email list – you can sign up at mountauburnstreet.com/stay-in-touch.