UNION SQUARE STREETSCAPE AND WATER MAIN PROJECT GETS UNDERWAY WITH DESIGN STUDY

"This

project will help us shape our greater vision for Union Square as a walkable,

bikeable, transit-accessible community hub, but we will not overlook the very

real need to address the utility problems in the area," Mayor Curtatone said.

"This study will help us identify the best solutions for mitigating flooding in

this area in an environmentally sensitive way. We may

love our Victorian homes in Somerville, but a turn-of-the-century water and

sewer system is no longer good enough. We will build the modern infrastructure

needed to protect our homes and allow the square to become an even more vibrant

town center."  

The

project will build on the 2002 Union Square Transportation Plan and a detailed

2009 study of transportation-related data in the square that yielded three

recommendations and a design report for preferred alternatives. The aim of the

streetscape improvements is to improve access, flow and safety for all modes of

transportation and to maximize the usable, central public open space in the

square, including the plaza. The proposed design will seek to update the plaza and streetscape

designs, create an improved traffic flow and signal system, and a bus

route and stop system consistent

with plans for the Urban Ring and the Green Line Extension. Utility

improvements aim further the City's goal of separating our water and sewer

system, as well as adding much needed capacity to the current system.

"Union

Square residents have been waiting a long time for these roadway improvements

and I am pleased that not only is this project moving forward, but that it

includes much needed utility improvements that better our residents' quality of

life," Ward 3 Alderman Tom Taylor said. "These improvements will both help

showcase all that Union Square has to offer and address the day-to-day services

that our residents rely on. It is pragmatic investment in City infrastructure

and a forward-looking plan to further invigorate the square."

"The

rehabilitation of existing water and sewer utilities and construction of new

infrastructure included in this project are critical steps to addressing

flooding in Union Square," Ward 2 Alderman Maryann Heuston said. "In addition,

making Union Square safe for pedestrians, bicyclists and those taking public

transportation is key to keep the already flourishing neighborhood growing and

thriving. By addressing traffic flow, roadway configurations, sidewalks and

crosswalks, dovetailing with plans for the Green Line Extension, this project

will make it easier for residents to get around their neighborhood and invite

even more people to spend time in our wonderful neighborhood."

Parsons

Brinkerhoff will manage the project out of its Boston office and will

re-evaluate previous plans while working with the community, with the City

holding at least four public meetings to solicit public input. The firm will

identify any possible design alternatives and add utility improvement design

work before presenting a recommended design based on community feedback and

empirical data. That recommended design will also include a phased

implementation plan. The $700,000 contract will bring the project to 25 percent

of the design phase, which would then go before the Massachusetts Department of

Transportation for review.

"I

am excited to have an international firm like Parsons Brinkerhoff bring its

extensive expertise to Somerville's Union Square," Mayor Curtatone said. "We

are continuing to unlock the tremendous economic potential in this

neighborhood. It's one step in a multi-pronged approach, along with the Green

Line Extension, the grounding of McGrath Highway and the elimination of the

waste transfer station that will spur new growth, while making Union Square

both a destination for visitors and a thriving neighborhood."

 "Union Square's

strength as a major crossroads for road and rail is also a challenge for

transportation planning," said Mimi Graney, Union Square Main Streets executive

director. "We're looking forward to improvements that will create a safe

multimodal design that will meet the needs of pedestrians, cyclists and drivers

and support the ongoing invigoration of the neighborhood. Greater clarity in

the roadway pattern will go a long way to assist visitors seeking out our

neighborhood's burgeoning businesses while improvements to public space will

foster even more pedestrian activity. Union Square Main Streets welcomes the

opportunity to work with the consultants to pull in community input and ideas.

I'm pleased that the City of Somerville is maintaining its commitment to invest

in the future of Union Square."