Photo: Chaiel Schaffel/WBZ NewsRadio
SOMERVILLE, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — In a city just outside Boston, business owners and residents alike have been expressing their frustration with a pothole-filled street. Now, the city has plans to repave parts of it.
After years of complaints, Somerville is repaving part of Highland Ave., which is a street so infamous for its potholes that some people have bumper stickers that say, “This car survived Highland Ave.”
One person said that his friends have had their tires pop on the road, but he has dodged the bullet so far. “I ride delicately when I do [go on the road]. But I’ve been fortunate so far.”
Another person shared they were glad at least part of the street is being repaved. “I think it’s good they’re only doing the travel lanes, but hey, that’s enough for now to drive on.”
Photo: Chaiel Schaffel/WBZ NewsRadio
The paving will take place overnight on Wednesday starting at 8 p.m. and go until Thursday at 7 a.m., and the road between McGrath Hwy and School St. will be closed to traffic in both directions.
Pedestrians can still access the sidewalks during the repaving, and on-street parking will be restricted.
The plan to repave the road has been met with some responses saying that it’s too little, too late.
“I think it’s great that they’re redoing it. It’s just that the damage has already been done, shall I say,” shared business owner Ada.
“I’ve blown quite a few tires. It’s been a war zone here,” she added.
“I cannot get deliveries,” another business owner on Highland Ave. told WBZ NewsRadio about the potholes and construction.
“I’ve been here 35 years. It seems like I’m closing the door because of what’s going on.”
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A spokesperson for the City of Somerville explained that the pandemic slowed progress on many infrastructure projects like this one because they redirected resources to address public health needs.
Now, the city is aiming to upgrade its outdated sewer system, which “necessitated the excavation of Highland Ave.”
The interim repaving project scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday will reduce disruptions and ensure safer travel, the city said.
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There is also a full redesign of Highland Ave. being planned that will include “improved sidewalks, crossings, bike lanes, tree planting, and more,” which will upgrade the utilities and beautify the area.
The larger project “supports local businesses with a more appealing business district,” explained the city.
The city added that they “understand the concerns of our small business owners on Highland Ave regarding the potential impact of current construction,” but they said that “the improvements will not only address current inconveniences but also provide long-term benefits for our small businesses and the community at large.”
WBZ NewsRadio's Chaiel Schaffel (@CSchaffelWBZ) reports.
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