Drivers will see some lane closures over the next few weeks during the removal of catenary wires formerly used by MBTA buses. The work is being done prior to the start of the Mt. Auburn Street Renovation project.
The Mt. Auburn Street project will run from Common Street to the Cambridge line and includes a “road diet” that reduces the travel lanes to one in many spots, while adding turn lanes at major intersections. Bike lanes will be added along most of the distance of the project, and traffic light and landscaping improvements are also part of the project.
The City of Watertown provided the following announcement:
In preparation for the beginning of roadway work on Mount Auburn Street, and after a delay from our last update, Dagle Electric is confirmed to start removing the Overhead Catenary System. The Overhead Catenary System includes the electrical lines previously being used to power MBTA route 71 and 73 buses.
This work is scheduled to take place during evening hours from 8:00 PM each night to 4:00 AM the following morning for approximately six weeks. The work is scheduled to occur on the following dates:
- Tuesday, July 9, through Thursday, July 11
- Tuesday, July 16, through Thursday, July 18
- Sunday, July 21, through Thursday, July 25
- Sunday, July 28, through Thursday, August 1
- Sunday, August 4, through Thursday, August 8
- Sunday, August 11, through Thursday, August 15
Work will start on Mount Auburn Street at Arlington Street and continue west toward Watertown Square. Lane closures will be required for crews to complete the work, but no road closures or detours will be required.
Perfect, fully enhances the 3rd world experience of driving down Mt Auburn already! Saving money by seeing how the developing world lives, right here at home!
Everyone wants road improvements to just happen as if by magic. Make it work but don’t inconvenience me along the way. And to compare this to developing world infrastructure is laughable.
Isn’t it funny how individuals that don’t have to drive on these streets think it’s no big deal.
It IS no big deal. Infrastructure is under repair everywhere because the government finally started investing. I’d love to here your alternative plan.
I’m joking Paul, even though the front end alignment business at local auto shops is booming. Have a great day, stay cool!