As we prepare for the upcoming Mount Auburn Street Project, we were pleased to host an in-person meeting with Coolidge Square businesses on March 19, 2026. Invitations were extended to all local businesses, and we sincerely appreciate those who took the time to attend, ask questions, and share feedback.
What We Covered
During the meeting, we walked through several key topics to help businesses better understand what to expect:
Points of contact for questions and concerns
Project design details
Estimated construction timelines
The sidewalk and curb installation process
Proposed loading zones within Coolidge Square
Staying Connected During Construction
Clear and consistent communication will be essential throughout the project. Businesses and residents can stay informed or reach out with questions in several ways:
For immediate concerns (construction, detours, etc.):
Call 311 in Watertown or dial 617-458-8311 (texting is also available)
Email: team@mountauburnstreet.com
For weekly updates:
Sign up for email updates at mountauburnstreet.com/stay-in-touch
Business Coordination During Sidewalk Work
Newport Construction will take a hands-on approach to coordinating directly with businesses:
The Newport Construction team will be connecting a crew member with each individual business to coordinate sidewalk work being done in front of storefronts.
Sidewalk work directly in front of businesses will be scheduled separately from general concrete work.
To minimize disruption, storefront work will take place during early morning or nighttime hours whenever possible.
MassDOT will determine when sidewalks are safe and accessible, and Newport will share those updates with businesses.
Project Design Highlights
At the meeting, the project designer presented renderings of the future Coolidge Square streetscape. These designs highlight:
A new placemaking area on Bigelow Avenue
A redesigned streetscape throughout Coolidge Square
Dedicated street parking
New bike lanes and improved roadway layout
Estimated Construction Timeline
Newport Construction also shared a preliminary schedule for sidewalk removal and installation. Please note that all dates are subject to change:
South Side of Mount Auburn Street (School Lane to Belmont Street):
March 30 – April 24, 2026Arlington Street and Grove Street:
April 27 – May 8, 2026South Side of Mount Auburn Street (Arlington Street to School Street):
May 11 – July 10, 2026North Side of Mount Auburn Street (School Street to Arlington Street):
July 13 – September 4, 2026Mount Auburn Street (School Street to Chauncy Street):
September 8 – October 31, 2026
What to Expect: Sidewalk Replacement Process
To provide more clarity, Newport Construction outlined the steps involved in sidewalk reconstruction:
Removal of the existing sidewalk
Rough grading and preparation of the base
Removal of existing granite curbing and installation of new curbs
Formwork to shape and contain the concrete
Concrete pouring and finishing
Proposed Loading Zones
We also discussed questions related to loading and deliveries. Four proposed loading zones are planned within Coolidge Square at the following intersections along Mount Auburn Street:
Dexter Avenue
Melendy Avenue
Elton Avenue
Kimball Road
