Victory For Biking On Casey Overpass Project
Thanks to the hard work of MassBike and many other advocacy organizations (most notably the Boston Cyclists Union, and also the Livable Streets Alliance and WalkBoston), the Massachusetts Department of Transportation announced earlier this month that the Casey Overpass will be brought at-grade. As Transportation Secretary Richard Davey stated, “The decision was made after an extensive public outreach campaign consisting of five public meetings and 12 Working Advisory Group meetings over a nine-month period. That process has led us to determine that the at-grade alternative reconnects the neighborhood, provides more open space, incorporates more design elements that are pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly, and allows for more efficient bus movements through the area.”
Currently, the Casey Overpass is significantly deteriorated and at the end of its serviceable life. With the decision to bring the overpass at-grade the project has been unofficially dubbed the "Casey Parkway," as it will include several small green spaces in the currently proposed plan. MassDOT expects construction to begin in October 2013. This is a momentous victory for a more livable, bicycle friendly street design throughout the Forest Hill community. We look forward to keeping you updated as this story progresses.