Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
King, Paul C (DOT) <paul.c.king@state.ma.us> Tuesday, December 13, 2011 9:52AM NathanieiCabrai-Curtis; Romano, John (DOT); Mclaughlin, Steve (DOT); Andrea D'Amato FW: Thank you! Please note, log, file. Paul C. King, P.E.
Project Manager
Accelerated Bridge Program
MassDOT, Highway Division
10 Park Plaza, Room 6500
Boston, MA 02116
Office: 617-973-8137
Mobile:617-939-6915
paul.c.king@state.ma.us
From: freemansherwood@hotmail.com [mailto:freemansherwood@hotmail.com] Sent: Monday, December 12, 2011 9:31 PM To: King, Paul C. (Don Subject: Thank you! Dear Paul, Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today about my concerns re: Casey planning. In my opinion, since the public meetings began, MassDOT has run an exemplary public process. Holding so many consultant-led meetings plus maintaining the Casey website is extraordinary. Did you see the letter to the editor in the Boston Globe on Sat.? Now the continued integrity of the process depends on fact-based decision-making. The outcome is too important to be allowed to turn into a last minute political tug-of-war, especially one based on fear-mongering & misuse of regional travel & environmental justice arguments. Either we believe the data or not. My understanding is that "30 to 90 second delays" refer to the Forest Hills portion of the trip only; if motorists go over a 2-block elevated highway, only to spend more time at the next light at Murray Circle, their total trip is not shortened. No neighborhood should ask to harm another neighborhood for their perceived (incorrectly) benefit. Our state level decision-makers need to distinguish between real harm and fear of potential harm. Misuse of "environmental justice" is an injustice to all. After decades of moving as many cars as fast as possible and at the expense of other user groups, I applaud MassDOT for attempting to level the playing field, Sarah Freeman Arborway Coalition representative on the Casey WAG 1
Dear Mr. Broderick,
As a resident of Boston for the last 6 years and a person who uses a bicycle
as my main form of transportation, I strongly encourage MassDOT to save millions of
taxpayer dollars and create a livelier more livable neighborhood in Forest Hills by
building an at-grade option in place of the crumbling and overbuilt Casey Overpass. I
believe it will encourage economic development in the immediate neighborhood and
create a new place to enjoy the outdoors and host community events at the end of
the SW Corridor bike path.
I am aware that traffic engineers in your department have determined that both a
bridge and the at-grade option will handle the predicted traffic flow of 2035 in roughly
the same way. In light of this I see no reason to build a bridge. In future projects, I
believe that the recently consolidated MassDOT would serve Massachusetts better
to find ways to hold traffic flow around our fair city to the levels of 2011 or less
instead of planning for traffic increases. This could be accomplished in many areas
by developing public transportation, a safe connective bikeways network and
pedestrian-friendly streets that encourage active transportation and healthier
lifestyles.
My approval and support of the at-grade option is contingent on the timely
completion of bike paths that will travel up both sides of Washington St. toward
Roslindale from the project area, and ending at Ukraine Way where they will be
designed to connect to and complement the bike lanes on that street. The
construction of these bike paths should be considered as part of the replacement
project and completed within the same time frame as that project.
It is also contingent on there being no "slip lanes" at either Washington Street, Hyde
Park Avenue or South Street. Slip lanes create dangerous situations for both
pedestrians and cyclists due their wider radius turn that allows cars to travel through
them at an increased speed. There is no need for speed in this area and in this
community we value the safety of our residents over convenience for motor vehicles.
I also support converting Shea Circle into "Shea Square" by creating a normal
intersection there. Traffic circles, particularly those handling more than one lane of
traffic, have been proven to be particularly dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians.
I look forward to the rest of the design process, where I would hope the engineers
would find a way to offer ways for bicycles to safely make left turns onto both
Washington Streets (northbound and southbound) by using an innovation such as a
45-degree angle-cut median refuge, or a Two-Stage Turn Queue Box
(http://nacto.org/cities-for-cycling/design-guide/intersection-treatmentsl). Bicyclists
will likely make left turns at this location whatever is built, and thus offering one or
both of these options will help keep them safe and legal. Both are described in
NACTO (National Association of City Transportation Engineers) Urban Bikeway
,­
Dear Mr. Broderick,
As a resident of Boston for the last 6 years and a person who uses a bicycle
as my main form of transportation, I strongly encourage MassDOT to save millions of
taxpayer dollars and create a livelier more livable neighborhood in Forest Hills by
building an at-grade option in place of the crumbling and overbuilt Casey Overpass. I
believe it will encourage economic development in the immediate neighborhood and
create a new place to enjoy the outdoors and host community events at the end of
the SW Corridor bike path.
I am aware that traffic engineers in your department have determined that both a
bridge and the at-grade option will handle the predicted traffic flow of 2035 in roughly
the same way. In light of this I see no reason to build a bridge. In future projects, I
believe that the recently consolidated MassDOT would serve Massachusetts better
to find ways to hold traffic flow around our fair city to the levels of 2011 or less
instead of planning for traffic increases. This could be accomplished in many areas
by developing public transportation, a safe connective bikeways network and
pedestrian-friendly streets that encourage active transportation and healthier
lifestyles.
My approval and support ofthe at-grade option is contingent on the timely
completion of bike paths that will travel up both sides of Washington St. toward Roslindale from the project area, and ending at Ukraine Way where they will be designed to connect to and complement the bike lanes on that street. The
construction of these bike paths should be considered as part of the replacement
project and completed within the same time frame as that project.
It is also contingent on there being no "slip lanes" at either Washington Street, Hyde
Park Avenue or South Street. Slip lanes create dangerous situations for both
pedestrians and cyclists due their wider radius turn that allows cars to travel through
them at an increased speed. There is no need for speed in this area and in this
community we value the safety of our residents over convenience for motor vehicles.
I also support converting Shea Circle into "Shea Square" by creating a normal
intersection there. Traffic circles, particularly those handling more than one lane of
traffic, have been proven to be particularly dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians.
I look forward to the rest of the design process, where I would hope the engineers
would find a way to offer ways for bicycles to safely make left turns onto both
Washington Streets (northbound and southbound) by using an innovation such as a
45-degree angle-cut median refuge, or a Two-Stage Turn Queue Box
(http://nacto.org/cities-for-cycling/design-guide/intersection-treatments/). Bicyclists
will likely make left turns at this location whatever is built, and thus offering one or
both of these options will help keep them safe and legal. Both are described in
NACTO (National Association of City Transportation Engineers) Urban Bikeway
Design Guide and would likely be supported by the City of Boston's Transportation
Department and the Boston Bikes program.
A complementary project to the Casey Overpass that MassDOT could introduce in
the near future would be to install physically protected bike lanes (cycletracks) along
Morton Street, in order to connect the benefits of this project and the SW Corridor to
Mattapan and Dorchester and vice versa.
I often find it difficult and dangerous to make the trip to Mattapan or Dorchester
through this route even though it is the most direct route for me to travel. It is
dangerous for cyclists to travel on Morton St. because motorists travel at high
speeds there. This discourages me to travel to that neighborhood and it discourages
people in that neighborhood from using bikes as a means of transportation to
commute to the city.
Another aspect of the further design will be what to install in the open space created
at the end of the SW Corridor. The bike path on the corridor has been named the
Pierre Lallement Bike Path after the inventor of the pedal who spent the last years of
his life on Fort Hill. It would be appropriate to include a small monument to his
memory, and perhaps a bike maintenance station and area for cyclists to
congregate. The SW Corridor is undoubtedly Boston's busiest bike path and as a
cyclist I am very enthusiastic about this project's potential to expand and enhance it
while removing a wall that separates two parts of our neighborhood.
Thank you for your work to improve our community, and for this opportunity to
comment on MassDOT's design process.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Barry
31 Haskell St. #2
Allston, MA 02134
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETIS MASSACHUSETIS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HIGHWAY DIVISION CASEY OVERPASS REPLACEMENT PROJECT PLANNING STUDY JAMAICA PLAIN, MASSACHUSETIS 1. Pedestrian and bicycle level of service are very important measures. When will they be evaluated (they are blank in the MOE)?
2. Obiective 1.Q4b Improve roadway and jntersection ooerations for vehicles. The measure is "Simplify network~number of turns between
specific destinations" but the actual Measure modifies this intent to give credit to the surface scheme by adding the words "with alternative
route provided.•.• These words contradict the stated goal of simplifying the network. The at-grade alternative is horribly indirect for left turns
in the east/west direction and should be ranked "-1."This is wrong and needs to be corrected.
3. Qbjt:ctive 2.02b Improve bicycle and oedestrian access and overall conneclivitv. The measure is "Number of lanes·crossed nOnlvsouth
movement" and the "Assumptions" add "lailes crossed between pedestrian refuge areas". Bicycles cannot take advantage of a pedestrian
refuge. This measure should omit the "between pedestrian refuge areas" and just measure the number of Janes cmssed. Also, the at-grade
alternative is 3-4lanes, not 31anes, and the bridge alternative is 1-2Janes. The at-grade alternative requires cmssing more lanes and should
be ranked "-1." This score is wrong and needs to be corrected.
4. Objective 2,02c Imorove bicycle and pedestrian access and overall circulation. The evaluation is wrong. The at-grade solution degrades
sidewalk width on New Washington Street (from 15'6" to 8') and north of Ukraine Way where pedestrians wiiJ have 6' next to a narrow two­
way bike path. The at-grade alternative should be ranked "0." This score is wrong and needs to be corrected.
S. Ql)jective 3.01 Su!Ulllrt access to future tleveiQpment. The measure does not adequately measure the objective (strengthen neighborhood
sightlines), but if you look at the goal of "removing barriers for neighborhood connections," the evaluation is wrong because it does not
acknowledge the barrier 6-7 Janes.of traffic creates. The at-grade alternative should be ranked "0." This score is wrong and needs to be
corrected.
6. Obiective 3.02 Promote modal connections that reduce use of personal vehicles. ·The measure does not relate to the objective and should be
eliminated. This measure makes an unsupportable connection between square feet of bus waiting area and transit ridership.
7. Objective 5.01a Increase -space for community gatherings or activities ... The calculation of percentage increase is wrong. Shown here are
percentages of the total usable space, not the percentage increase. Bridge alternative results in a 53% increase and the at-grade results in a
more modest 30% increase The at-grade alternative should be dropped from 1 to 0. This score is wrong and needs to be corrected.
8. Objectjye S,Old Increase space for communjty gatherings or activities,, The measure for this objective-- off-peak speeds-- includes the
speeds of cars on top ofthe bridge. This shquld only be comparing speeds at grade level where people would actually gather and should be
modified. The bridge and at-grade alternatives should be ranked the same "1." This score is wrong and needs to be corrected.
9. Objective 5.02a Enhance the yalue of commercial and residentia112uildjngs through improved visual of aesthetic changes. The measure
does. not appropriately measure the objective (enhance the value of cmnmercial and residential buildings). This is so speculative, highly
subjective,.and unsupportable that it should be eliminated.
10. Objective 6.02a Evaluation of Emerald Necklace Q:mn.~li2nl· 'Phe rDeas~re for this objective does not include what will he measured­
they aro in the AssumptionS/Comments. Separated modes of travel and regul•.rly spaced rows of trees separating the modes. The conceptual
plans fer both alternatives accomplish separated modes and rows of trees, but the at-grade scheme suffers from breaks for the bowties and
signals. The at-grade alternative should be ranked "0" and the bridge "1." This'score is wrong and needs to be corrected.
Objective 6,02b Evaluation of Emerald Necklace Connections. The measure for this objective (create a central focus point that identifies the
area and provides guidance to local destinations) has nothing to do with the Emerald Necklace. The measure in the text does not match the
actual scoring which talks about creating large contiguous areas. This makes no sense and needs to re-thought. If the issue is creating a
central focal point, the bridge does this and should be ranked higher. Bridge or no bridge, the stores on Hyde Park Avenue aren't visible
from New Washington Street because of the grade. This MOE is useless and should be corrected.
Until these and other questions are addressed, I cannot support an at-grade project.
NAME __J_e_f_f_re_y_F_er_r_i_•_ _ _ __ ADDRESS.__Fe_r_r_i_•_Wh_e_e_l_s_B_ik_e_s_h_o_p_,_6_6_s_o_u_th-St.
TITLE-------­
ORGANIZATION_ _ _ _
PMA_c- - - - ­
To Thomas F. Broderick, P.E., Acting Chief Engineer, MassDOT, Highway Division
Obviously, Forest Hills needs a new overpass to replace the Casey. It shouldn't take a rocket scientist
or a brain surgeon to be able to see that. Why would anyone think that tripling the traffic on the
ground onto a 7-8-lane roadway would be better for any transportation mode? WalkBoston and
Livable Streets have been leading the way teaching us for years that smaller streets and intersections
are safer and easier for all to cross.
Bottlenecking the traffic without the bridge will do nothing for small business except to drive away
their driving customers. With so much fabulous parkland around Forest Hills, it does not have a high
enough local population to support its businesses. Easy access by all modes, cars, bikes, walkers, and
transit, is essential to its improvement and future transit-oriented-development. Successful TOD will
do a lot to encourage people not to drive so much. Having easier access to this area that a new bridge
will provide is essential to its future success.
We have been told that the traffic engineers were not trying to fix the traffic at Forest Hills with the
concepts they presented, but to only design for a minimal acceptable level of service. Acceptable is
NOT good enough for this community. We need a design that will actually work to fix whatever
possible of the traffic at Forest Hills. Clearly, dropping 24,000 cars a day onto the ground there is not
the right first step.
The ~ biks; lanes and open space in both options are certainly appreciated, as are improved path
connections :through the Emerald Necklace. Either concept brings many new trees to the area,
alth<fghie'Fe has been a very low survival rate of recent new trees planted along our local parkways.
The exact layout and look ofthe open space will be fleshed out in the design phase of either option.
This decision should not be made based on whatever amenities show up on the ground. It needs to be
based on the specific traffic benefits and detriments created by the two options. Clearly, the bridge
should win out by any measure.
With the new bridge, East-West regional traffic moves through seamlessly and without hindering the
north-south and local traffic. Smaller streets and intersections are easier to cross for walkers, bikers,
and especially the less-abled and the disabled. Smaller intersections clear traffic quicker too. Less
traffic stopped means better local air quality and less road-rage.
Apparently there are some people who don't like looking at bridges. Unfortunately there are some
people on the Cape who don't like looking at windmills either. Just because the current bridge is
unattractive by most people's standards doesn't mean there shouldn't be any bridge here. Trolls do not
live under bridges any more, except in Seattle. Designing a new bridge at Forest Hills will require
creative and open minds to build an attractive focal point and destination. The bridge needs to be a
connector on the top and a gateway underneath.
There are some examples of creative bridge spaces at rebuildcasey.com. Can you please put a link to
this on your Casey website?
As many have said, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do something great for Forest Hills.
Please design a fabulous new bridge, and keep ALL modes of traffic moving .
•
Jeffiey Ferris, owner, Ferris Wheels Bike Shop, 30th year
66 South Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
P.S. ABP is about jobs too!
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HIGHWAY DIVISION CASEY OVERPASS REPLACEMENT PROJECT PLANNING STUDY JAMAICA PLAIN, MASSACHUSETTS This sheet is provided for your comments. 1
Your input is solicited and appreciatec.l,l .!
··<; ... t~
Please return your sheet, with comments,
staff member at the meeting, or
mail to Thomas F. Broderick, P.E., Acting Chief Engineer, Massachusetts
Department of Transportation, Highway Division, 10 Park Plaza, Suite 3170,
Boston, Massachusetts 02116-3973.
The final date for receipt of written statements and exhibits will be ten (10) days
after the Public Information Meeting.
.
..
{00 NAME
ADDRESS
TITLE-------­
ORGANIZATION,_ _ _ _ _ _ __ Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us> Tuesday, December 20, 2011 8:38 AM 'Essek Petrie'; Mclaughlin, Steve (DOT); King, Paul C (DOT); Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis; 'McNaughton, Gary'
FW: Request on Casey Overpass
Hi All:
Please review and log. Gary any response?
John
F~~~: Willi~rn c Hutchinson[rn~ilbu
j j :oj :-dijjj j ....·
Sent: Sunday, December 18, 2011 9:03AM To: liz.malia@mahouse.gov; David.McNulty@cityofboston.gov; Jullieanne.Doherty@cityofboston.gov; ayanna.pressley@cityofboston.gov; felix.arroyo@cityofboston.gov; matthew.omalley@cityofboston.gov; Stephen.Murphy@cityofboston.gov; john.r.connolly@cityofboston.gov; Romano, John (DOT); King, Paul C. (DOT) Subject: Request on casey Overpass I wanted to take a moment and thank you for all your attention and time to the Casey Overpass issue. I
appreciate that you want to get it right. From what I have seen and read I am in favor of an at-grade solution
but I understand there are a lot of factors at play. The one request I have is that we try and not dictate our
thinking and decision-making process based on the concept of what the traffic patterns will be like in 20 or 25
years. Instead ofletting future traffic dictate our present lives we can use present decisions to dictate future
traffic. I have lived in a number of urban spaces not in the U.S. and have learned that traffic need not increase if
policy and construction decisions do not allow it to do so.
Thanks for your time,
Will Hutchinson
1
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us>
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 3:08PM
'Essek Petrie'; McLaughlin, Steve (DOT); King, Paul C (DOT); Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
FW: Rebuild the Casey Overpass
a
From: Emmanuel S [mailto:&ll I I I
I • •• Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 1:50 PM To: russell.holmes@mahouse.gov; liz.malia@mahouse.gov; jeffrey.sanchez@mahouse.gov; sonia.chang­
diaz@masenate.gov; david.mcnulty@cityofboston.gov; jullieanne.doherty@cityofboston.gov; ayanna.pressley@cityofboston.gov; felix.arroyo@cityofboston.gov; matthew.omalley@cityofboston.gov; stephen.murphy@cityofboston.gov; john.r.connolly@cityofboston.gov; Romano, John (DOT) Subject: Rebuild the Casey Overpass Hello Everyone, I am asking for your support to rebuild the Casey Overpass to keep the surface-street traffic volumes reduced and under control. I appreciate it. Thank you in advance. Emmanuel Scibilia 1
Dear Mr. Broderick,
As a resident ofBurnett St, within sight ofthe Casey overpass and a person who uses a bicycle
as my main form oftransportation, I am for the removal ofthe Casey overpass and its
rep~acem~nt by an "at grade option." I am aware that Jeff Farris of Farris Wheels is advocating
agrunst th1s and that he purports to speak for many JP cyclists. I want to make it clear I am not
~ne of them. My ~irlfriend was hit on he_r bik~ trying to travel the tangled mess that is a bridge
nght now and I think that an at grade option Will have a positive impact on my quality of life and
the life of the neighborhood and will increase my property values to boot.
·
. · ··· Jt~~Nl-k'H~~~g\hWs~JHreb?trW~~o?RJ~t~J~Wlli~&e'-N1»>H-JtltJi1Jl!JfroVJill!f...kaJP.gWlil!:<~
option will handle the predicted traffic flow of2035 in roughly the same way. Their analysis
sounds correct to me, having seen that the big drag on traffic is not in the Forest Hills area, but
actually in the traffic circle where the Jamaica Way and Centre St. meet. In light of this I see no
reason to build a bridge. In future projects, I believe that the recently consolidated MassDOT
would serve Massachusetts better to find ways to hold traffic flow around our fair city to the .
levels of2011 or less instead of plruming for traffic increases. This could be accomplished in
many areas by developing public transportation, a safe connective bikeways network and
pedestrian-friendly streets that encourage active transportation and healthier lifestyles.
My approval and support of the at-grade option is contingent on the timely completion ofbike
paths that will travel up both sides of Washington St. toward Roslindale from the project area,
and ending at Ukraine Way where they will be· designed to connect to and complement the bike
lanes on that street. The construction of these bike paths should be considered as part of the
replacement project and completed within the same time frame as that project.
It is also contingent on there being no "slip lanes" at either Washington Street, Hyde Park
Avenue or South Street. I have had a number of scary moments in places like these. Slip lanes
create dangerous situations for both pedestrians and cyclists due their wider radius tum that
allows cars to travel through them at an increased speed. There is no need for speed in this area
and in this community we value the safety o{our residents over convenience for motor vehicles.
I also support converting Shea Circle into "Shea Square" by creating a normal intersection there.
Traffic circles, particularly those handling more than one lane of traffic, have been proven to be
particularly dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians.
I look forward to the rest of the design process, where I would hope the engineers would fmd a
way to offer ways for bicycles to safely make left turns onto both Washington Streets
(northbound and southbound) by using an innovation such as a 45-degree angle-cut median
refuge, or a Two-Stage Tum Queue Box (http://nacto.org/cities-for-cycling/design­
guide/intersection-treatrnents/). Bicyclists will likely make left turns at this location whatever is
built, and thus offering one or both of these options willl)elp keep them safe and legal. Both· are
described in NACTO (National Association ofCity Transportation Engineers) Urban Bikeway
Design Guide and would likely be supported by the City of Boston's Transportation Department
and the Boston Bikes program.
·, · ·
'
A complementary project to the Casey Overpass that MassDOTcould introduce in the near
future would be to install physically protected bike lanes (cycletracks) along Morton Street, in
order to connect the benefits of this project and the SW Corridor to Mattapan and Dorchester and
vice versa.
Another aspect ofthe further design will be what to install in the open space created at the end of
the SW Corridor. The bike path on the corridor has been named the Pierre Lallement Bike Path
after the inventor of the pedal who spent the last years of his life on Fort Hill. It would be
appropriate to include a small monument to his memory, and perhaps a bike maintenance station
and area for cyclists to congregate. The SW Corridor is. undoubtedly Boston's busiest bike path
And. Reo: A. cwclistlattLv.erv~eothw~_i.a~f:i.c:, A_hcp lt._t~hLl:'~oiP-~t.:S_n?tggti~ 1~tn .PV.r'l~~~.-~:"r.L_P.,h~r-~~-;t____ -­
wuuo: ro:muvmg··a·warn:naL st:pW:aLt:inwu pat1:>01 oucuo;!guouwuou:
·· · · - · ····
-· - - ·.
Thank you for your work to improve our community, and for this opportunity to comment on
MassDOT's design process.
Sincerely,
Abbi Holt
38 Burnett St.
Jamaica Plain, MA
02130
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us> Monday, January 09, 2012 8:26 AM Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis; Mclaughlin, Steve (DOT); King, Paul C (DOT); Essek Petrie; 'McNaughton, Gary'
FW:
Please review and log.
John
-----Original Messagec---­
From: clairevickie Sent: Saturday, January To: Romano, John (DOT) Cc: vineet.gupta@cityofboston.gov; David.McNulty@cityofboston.gov; Jullieanne.Doherty@cityofboston.gov; ayanna.pressley@cityofboston.gov; felix.arroyo@cityofboston.gov; matthew.omalley@cityofboston.gov; Stephen.Murphy@cityofboston.gov; john.r.connolly@cityofboston.gov; russell.e.holmes@ampf.com; liz.malia@mahouse.gov; sonia.chang-diaz@masenate.gov; jeffrey.sanchez@mahouse.gov Subject: January 7, 2012
Thomas F. Broderick, P.E., Acting Chief Engineer, MassDOT, 10 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116, ATIN: (Paul King, Project File No. 605511). Dear Mr. Broderick, I know I'm weighing in at the last moment, but wanted to speak up anyway regarding the Casey Overpass. If the studies show that the same traffic can be handled by both models, I'd favor a solution at street level. The current overpass is ugly and creates a moonscape kind of atmosphere in the middle of the Forest Hills section of town. Replacing it would continue this. I am very concerned that either option be as bike-friendly as possible. I am a year-round bicyclist (as well as a driver and pedestrian, like most bicyclists). When I'm not hauling my children around Jamaica Plain, I'm always on my bike. Far too often bicycle infrastructure is considered a recreational luxury. There are more and more people using bikes to commute, not just recreate. For myriad reasons, this should be encouraged by incorporating ease of bike use into the streetscape as well as great pedestrian access. This should be an integral part of any plan, not an add-on. I love the SW Corridor bike path and the path along the Muddy River and would love to see expanded options. It would be great to have the parks connected for bikes. Crossing now is really hard and hazardous since there's no infrastructure for bikes comparable to what there is for pedestrians and drivers. I'm 53 with double knee replacements, so I'm not a lycra-clad racer who can keep up with car traffic, just an average bicyclist. Please take the safety of the average bicyclist into consideration. I want to raise my kids to be used to getting around town by bike without having to take their lives in their hands every time they do so. Our safety and convenience deserves equal consideration. I've looked at a lot of suggestions from various cycling groups and they're good ones. Too often, there are no bicyclists on the committees of in the groups of engineers who design our streets. Please listen to them. 1
Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Claire E. Humphrey 83 May Street, Jamaica Plain Cc: above emails ,
,,
2
l
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us>
Thursday, January 12, 2012 9:01AM
King, Paul C (DOT); Mclaughlin, Steve (DO.T); Essek Petrie; 'McNaughton, Gary'; Nathaniel
Cabrai-Curtis
FW: Support for the At-Grade replacement for the Casey Overpass
Hi All:
Please review and log in.
John
From: Doherty, Jullieanne [mailto:Jullieanne.Doherty@cityofboston.gov]
Sent: Wednesday, January 11, 2012 11:50 AM
To: Romano, John (DOT)
Cc: Gupta, Vineet
Subject: FW: Support for the At-Grade replacement for the casey Overpass
FYI
Best,
Jullieanne Doherty
Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Coordinator
Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services
Boston City Hall, Rm. 708
Boston, MA 02201
617.635.4855
From: Peter Thomson [mailto~
Sent: Tuesday, January 10, 2:10:11 PM
To: Pressley, Ayanna; Arroyo, Felix; Murphy, Stephen (Councilor); Connolly, John (City Council); O'Malley, Matthew
Cc: McNulty, David; Doherty, Jullieanne
Subject: Support for the At-Grade replacement for the casey Overpass
~
Ayanna Pressley
At-Large City Councillor
Felix Arroyo
At-Large City Councillor
Stephen Murphy
At-Large City Councillor
John Connolly
At-Large City Councillor
Matt O'Malley
District 6 City Councillor
1
Dear Councillors Pressley, Arroyo, Murphy, Connolly and O'Malley,
I live one block from the Casey overpass and pass through the area several times each day--usually by foot and
sometimes by car--and I'm writing to express my strong support for the at-grade option for replacing the
structure. Others, including my wife Edith Buhs, have written eloquently and extensively about why they also
support the at-grade option. I'll leave it simply at this: an overpass at this location is a poor solution to a
problem that doesn't exist anymore.
Our neighborhood will benefit immeasurably from the permanent removal of the overpass, the restoration of
something close to the original plan for the parkway, and the other improvements that this option will allow,
and the additional burden to non-residents who use the roadway to pass through the area will be extremely
small, on the order of two minutes of extra driving time.
This is a once-in-in-a-lifetime opportunity to eliminate one of Boston's ugliest scars, knit a neighborhood back
together, and create green space and restore a lost link in a world-class chain of parks. Please make sure that
this opportunity is not lost.
Sincerely,
Peter Thomson
Peter Thomson
61 Hampstead Road #2
Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts 02130
t
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A
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,' Editor
Author, Sacred Sea: A Journey to Lake Baikal from Oxford Universitv Press
-'"Superb... compelling"-The New irk ~i~·e·~ ,,.~ .. :
~
Available at your local bookstore and on Kindle from Amazon
The substance of this message, including any attachments, may be confidential, legally privileged and/or
exempt from disclosure pursuant to Massachusetts law. It is intended solely for the addressee. If you
received this in error, please contact the sender and delete the material from any computer.
2
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us>
Thursday, January 12, 2012 11:31 AM
Mclaughlin, Steve (DOT); Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis; King, Paul C (DOT); Essek Petrie; 'Andrea
D'Amato'
FW: Jamaica Pond Association directors vote to support the bridge solution for the Casey
Replacement projec t
Hi All:
FYI, do we know someone who is on the board to check this out? I do not know if Kevin actually sits on the board.
Thanks,
John
From: moloneys [mailto:moloneys@verizon.net] Sent: Tuesday, January 10, 2012 5:49 PM To: 'kevin.m.wolfson@gmail.com'; 'ewheelwright@gmail.com'; 'ericbot@mac.com'; 'jeffrey@ferriswheelsbikeshop.com'; 'wwilliams333@verizon.net'; 'fsv.jp@comcast.net'; 'KSchneiderman@bostoncil.org'; 'kathleen.coffey@jud.state.ma.us'; 'schellprinting@comcast.net'; 'bernard.doherty@parsons.com'; 'ewylie325@comcast.net'; 'michael.epp@seacon.com'; 'hickiem@gmail.com'; 'david@massbike.org'; 'nbrown@brownrowe.com'; 'td.dougherty@yahoo.com'; 'masonsmith@rcn.com'; 'josephine.burr@gmail.com'; 'cathyslade1@aol.com'; 'wesleywilliams@post.harvard.edu'; 'romoniadix@aol.com'; 'burks167@gmail.com'; 'dmhannon@mindspring.com'; 'kk@historicboston.org'; 'bealm@mindspring.com'; 'aihrer@comcast.net'; 'dmitchell@ethocare.org'; 'freemansherwood@hotmail.com'; 'm@halle.us'; 'dmhannon@mindspring.com'; 'bob.dizon@gmail.com'; 'deunson@gmail.com'; 'jpmichael@rcn.com'; 'liz@strategymatters.org'; 'wolfslm@yahoo.com'; 'bcrichlow28@aol.com'; 'allan@bbmc.com' Cc: 'robert.torres@mahouse.gov'; 'nika.elugardo@masenate.gov'; 'jullieanne.doherty@cityofboston.gov'; 'valerie.frias@cityofboston.gov'; 'Russeii.Holmes@mahouse.gov'; cheryl florio @ AAA; 'vineet.gupta@cityofboston.gov'; 'john.read.bra@cityofboston.gov'; 'kate.chang@mail.house.gov'; Romano, John (DOD; Mclaughlin, Steve (DOT); King, Paul C. (DOD; DePaola, Frank (DOD; thomas.broderick@state.ma.us; edward.lambert@state.ma.us; jeffrey.sanchez@mahouse.gov; liz.malia@mahouse.gov; russell.holmes@mahouse.gov; mayor@cityofboston.gov; BTD@cityofboston.gov; james.hunt@cityofboston.gov; Vineet.Gupta@cityofboston.gov; Stephen.Murphy@cityofboston.gov; Felix.Arroyo@cityofboston.gov; John.R.Connolly@cityofboston.gov; Ayanna.Pressley@cityofboston.gov; matthew.omalley@cityofboston.gov; sheri_rolfes@kerry.senate.gov; liz.malia@mahouse.gov Subject: Jamaica Pond Association directors vote to support the bridge solution for the Casey Replacement project All:
The board of directors of the Jamaica Pond Association Gamaicapondassociation.com) at the
January meeting of the board held last night, January 9, 2012, voted to support the bridge or an
alternative bridge solution for the Casey Overpass replacement project.
Kevin F. Moloney
20 Rambler Road
Jamaica Plain
Massachusetts 02130
Tel.: 617.522.3988
e-mail: moloneys@verizon.net
1
E:merald Necklace
CONSERVANCY
The Emerald Necklace: Chosen as one of America's Top Ten Great Public Spaces for 20rc
-American Planning Associatiot
.............................................................................................................................................................................
lACK BAY
* RIVERWAY * OLMSTED PARK
fAMAICA POND * ARNOLD ARBORETUM * FRANKLIN PARI('
.............................. ............................................................................................................................................,., F~NS
~·(
-
President
January 12, 2012
Julie Crockford
Board of Directors
Angela Menino
Hon()f'f2ry Director
Benjamin Taylor
Chair
Mr. Deval Patrick
Massachusetts Governor
Massachusetts State House
Office of the Governor
Room280
Boston, MA 021133
Kathryn Cochrane Murphy
Via Chair and Clerk
Attn: Project No. 605511 Casey Overpass
Otile McManus
Vice Chair
Leo Swift
Treasurer
Lee Albright
Peter Barber
1\..nne Connolly
rohn R. Cook, Jr.
Dear Governor Patrick:
I am writing on behalf of the Board ofthe Emerald Necklace Conservancy. We would like
to take this opportunity to submit our comments on the replacement of the Casey Overpass
before a fmal decision is made by Secretary Davey.
lynn A. Dale
Michael Dukakis
::.:ourtney Forrester
;arab Freeman
:::awl Gladstone
~oger
Harris
"anice Henderson
Chair, Park Overseers
ames Hunnewell, Jr., AlA
\llatthew Kiefer
3eth Krudys
aneRoy
3-:reg Selkoe
Wendy Shattuck
:..inda Edmonds Turner
Vfarjorie Bakken
Emeritu.r
Emerald Necklace
::::onservancy
125 The Fenway
Boston, MA 02115
f: 617.522.2700
F: 617.522.2770
!!WW.Emeraldnecklace.o:rg
The Conservancy is in support of an at-grade solution for the replacement of the existing
bridge. The public process for this project has been an intensive nine-month affair
involving eighteen meetings, all open to the public. The Working Advisory Group (WAG)
consisting of thirty-seven representatives from a diverse array of local organizations met
twelve times in open meetings and dug into the project, developing Measures of Evaluation
by which to assess options the DoT developed for replacing the Casey. In the course of our
participation in the robust WAG process we have come to believe that an at-grade solution
can best meet the spirit of the criteria that were selected by the working group in the form
of those Measures of Evaluation.
While it is our mission to advocate for the Emerald Necklace we recognize that Forest Hills
is a dense and complicated urban area that must accommodate multiple modes of
transportation. However, we also believe that there is a great opportunity in this decision to
be forward thinking and to provide more focus on modes other than the automobile. The
at-grade solution includes bike lanes as well as pedestrian walkways. The bridge option
does not include either in an effort to keep the bridge as narrow as possible to reduce
shadows.
In knitting back together a network of streets and parks that were originally compromised
by the existing bridge we are convinced by the DoT consultants' presentation that the area
can be reinvigorated for people while allowing regional and local traffic to pass through
easily. The consultants demonstrated that an at-grade solution will help connect
surrounding neighborhoods to the commercial district of Jamaica Plain as well as reconnect
the Emerald Necklace parks. We believe that in the long term an at-grade solution will lead
to the betterment ofForest Hills and serve all of its users in a greatly improved manner.
Additionally, we do not see any reasonable justification for spending approximately $72.7
million needed for the bridge option opposed to an estimated $52.4 million for the at-grade
solution. Both solutions will help improve current traffic conditions. However, the at-grade
solution would also include a new entryway to the Forest Hills Orange Line T-stop,
allowing pedestrians to enter from both sides of the street and improving safety. The bridge option, which is
much more expensive, does not include this public transit improvement, and leaves the neighborhood divided
by a bridge.
We appreciate that the Emerald Necklace Conservancy was asked to participate in the working group for this
project and would like to thank MassDOT and the team for a well-conceived process. We hope that the
outcome will prove to be a successful solution for all.
Sincerely,
Julie Crockford
President
cc: richard.davey@state.ma.us, john.romano@dot.state.ma.us, kate.chang@mail.house.gov,
liz.malia@mahouse.gov, robert.torres@mahouse.gov, jeffrey.sanchez@mahouse.gov,
olufunmike.ibrahim@mahouse.gov, russell.holmes@mahouse.gov, nika.elugardo@masenate.gov,
sonia.chang-diaz@masenate.gov, jullieanne.doherty@cityofboston.gov,
matthew.omalley@citvofboston.gov, valerie.frias@cityofboston.gov, felix.arroyo@cityofboston.gov,
john.r.connolly@cityofboston.gov, ayanna.pressley@cityofboston.gov, stephen.murphy@cityofboston.gov
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us>
Wednesday, January 18,2012 8:42AM
Essek Petrie; King, Paul C (DOT); Mclaughlin, Steve (DOT); Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
FW: In support of the at-grade option for replacing the Casey Overpass
Please review and log.
Sent: Tuesday, January 17,
To: Romano, John (DOT)
Cc: David.McNulty@cityofboston.gov; Jullieanne.Doherty@cityofboston.gov; ayanna.pressley@cityofboston.gov; felix.arroyo@cityofboston.gov; matthew.omalley@cityofboston.gov; Stephen.Murphy@cityofboston.gov; john.r.connolly@cityofboston.gov; russell.e.holmes@ampf.com; liz.malia@mahouse.gov; sonia.chang­
diaz@masenate.gov; jeffrey.sanchez@mahouse.gov Subject: In support of the at-grade option for replacing the Casey Overpass January 17, 2012 Thomas F. Broderick, P.E., Acting Chief Engineer, MassDOT, 10 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116, ATTN: (Paul King, Project File No. 605511). Dear Mr. Broderick, As a resident of Jamaica Plain and a person who uses a car, bicycle, walking, bus and subway as transportation, I strongly encourage MassDOT to save millions of taxpayer dollars and create a livelier more livable neighborhood in Forest Hills by building an at-grade option in place of the crumbling and overbuilt Casey Overpass. I believe it will encourage economic development in the immediate neighborhood and create a new place to enjoy the outdoors and host community events at the end of the SW Corridor bike path. I am aware that traffic engineers in your department have determined that both a bridge and the at­
grade option will handle the predicted traffic flow of 2035 in roughly the same way. In light of this I see no reason to build a bridge. In future projects, I believe that the recently consolidated MassDOT would serve Massachusetts better to find ways to hold traffic flow around our fair city to the levels of 2011 or less instead of planning for traffic increases. This could be accomplished in many areas by developing public transportation, a safe connective bikeways network and pedestrian-friendly streets that encourage active transportation and healthier lifestyles. My approval and support of the at-grade option is contingent on the timely completion of bike paths that will travel up both sides of Washington St. toward Roslindale from the project area., and ending at Ukraine Way where they will be designed to connect to and complement the bike lanes on that street. The construction of these bike paths should be considered as part of the replacement project and completed within the same time frame as that project. 1
It is also contingent on there being no "slip lanes" at either Washington Street, Hyde Park Avenue or
South Street. Slip lanes create dangerous situations for both pedestrians and cyclists due their wider
radius turn that allows cars to travel through them at an increased speed. There is no need for speed
in this area and in this community we value the safety of our residents over convenience for motor .
vehicles.
1also support converting Shea Circle into "Shea Square" by creating a normal intersection there.
Traffic circles, particularly those handling more than one lane of traffic, have been proven to be
particularly dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians.
\;
1look forward to the rest of the design process, where I would hope the engineers would find a way to
offer ways for bicycles to safely make left turns onto both Washington Streets (northbound and
southbound) by using an innovation such as a 45-degree angle-cut median refuge, or a Two-Stage
Turn Queue Box (http://nacto.org/cities-for-cycling/design-guide/intersection-treatments/). Bicyclists
will likely make left turns at this location whatever is built, and thus offering one or both of these
options will help keep them safe and legal. Both are described in NACTO (National Association of
City Transportation Engineers) Urban Bikeway Design Guide and would likely be supported by the
City of Boston's Transportation Department and. the Boston Bikes program.
A complementary project to the Casey Overpass that MassDOT could introduce in the near future
would be to install physically protected bike lanes (cycletracks) along Morton Street, in order to
connect the benefits of this project and the SW Corridor to Mattapan and Dorchester and vice versa.
Another aspect of the further design will be what to install in the open space created at the end of the
SW Corridor. The bike path on the corridor has been named the Pierre Lallement Bike Path after the
inventor of the pedal who spent the last years of his life on Fort Hill. It would be appropriate to include
a small monument to his memory, and perhaps a bike maintenance station and area for cyclists to
congregate. The SW Corridor is undoubtedly Boston's busiest bike path and as a cyclist I am very
enthusiastic about this project's potential to expand and enhance it while removing a wall that
separates two parts of our neighborhood.
Thank you for your work to improve our community, and for this opportunity to comment on
MassDOT's design process.
Sincerely,
Alistair Lucks
68 Wenham St. 1
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
2
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Allan lhrer <aihrer@gmail.com> Friday, February 03, 2012 12:27 PM Romano, John (DOT) cathyslade1 @aol.com; wesleywilliams@post harvard.edu; romoniadix@aol.com; burks167 @gmail.com; dmhannon@mindspring.com; kk@historicboston.org; bealm@mindspring.com; dmitchell@ethocare.org; freemansherwood@hotmail.com; m@halle.us; bob.dizon@gmail.com; deunson@gmail.com; jpmichael@rcn.com; liz@strategymatters.org; wolfslm@yahoo.com; kevin.m.wolfson@gmail.com; ewheelwright@gmail.com; ericbot@mac.com; jeffrey@ferriswheelsbikeshop.com; bcrichlow28@aol.com; vvwilliams333 @verizon. net; moloneys@verizon. net; kfm@barronstad .com; fsv.jp@comcast. net; KSchneiderman@bostoncil. erg; kathleen .coffey@jud. state. rna. us; schellprinting@comcast.net; dohertyjrbc@aol.com; bernard.doherty@parsons.com; ewylie325 @comcast.net; michael.epp@seacon.com; hickiem@gmail.com; david@massbike.org; nbrown@brownrowe.com; td.dougherty@yahoo.com; masonsmith@rcn.com; josephine.burr@gmail.com; vineetgupta@cityofboston.gov; Read, John; Dalzell, John; Doherty, Jullieanne; Torres, Robert (HOU); Mclaughlin, Steve (DOT); King, Paul C. (DOT); Andrea D'Amato; Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis; Frias, Valerie; Holmes, Russell (HOU); nathanael.shea@masenate.gov; kate.chang@mail.house.gov; aihrer@comcast.net Outstanding Bridge vs. No Bridge Issues
Hi John et al,
A small diverse group of WAG members have recently had an email discussion on outstanding/unanswered
traffic/transit issues. I have short listed what appear to be the primary items of concern of that group, and I'm sending
it along to you and the WAG. I think there is strong support for additional WAG meetings to expeditiously resolve these
prior to any decision on the Casey Overpass replacement.
Thanks,
Allan lhrer
Factors impacting a Bridge vs. No Bridge decision:
East/West Backups on the Arborway- AM Backups on the Arborway from the Murray Rotary don't appear in traffic
models or animations for either bridge/no bridge solution. PM backups from the Shea Rotary also occur. These backups
can extend back over the whole Casey Overpass. They are not reflected in the traffic models/simulations we've seen.
? -Are there impacts from traffic backups at the Left Turn Bowties; at North/South arterials, on traffic seeking alternate
routes?
Bus movements and Preferential Signaling vs. Synchronized Signaling- Bridge or No Bridge, regular and frequent rush
hour movements of 3 bus routes from Mattapan and Dorchester in addition to the #39 bus haven't been addressed in
. traffic models or simulations. Bus movements at the upper Forest Hills Station deck haven't been addressed in traffic
models or simulations
? -Will preferential traffic signaling for buses at New Washington St./Hyde Park Ave interfere with synchronized movement of traffic throughout the Forest Hills area? ? -Will bus movements at the upper FHS deck interfere with traffic movements through the Forest Hills area?
Traffic Mitigation - Neighborhoods and commuters are concerned that traffic mitigation measures be designed and completed before the start of the bridge demolition. 1
? -Traffic calming measures to improve safety in the study area are wanted. Are these adequate to mitigate any traffic
impacts?
Allan lhrer
116 Williams St., #2
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
617-983-5524, home
617-595-5145, cell
aihrer@comcast.net
2
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us> Wednesday, February 08,2012 8:18AM King, Paul C (DOT); Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis; Essek Petrie; Mclaughlin, Steve (DOT) FW: We need an At Grade Solution to the Casey Overpass Problem Please add to the data base of comments. I will be responding on behalf of the Secretary to her concern listed below. Thanks, John From: Betsy Munzer [mailto:
]
Sent: Monday, February 06, 2012 1:33 PM To: Davey, Richard (DOT); Romano, John (DOT); 'Smizik, Frank- Rep. (HOU)'; cynthia.creem@masenate.gov; jcrockford@emeraldnecklace.org; sknight@emeraldnecklace.org Subject: We need an At Grade Solution to the Casey Overpass Problem Please know that my husband and I are very much in favor of an "At Grade" solution to the problems at the
Casey Overpass! We are members of many of the organizations which support this solution, including Walk
Boston and the Emerald Necklace Conservancy.
Betsy & John Munzer
I atn saddened that the Casey Overpass project has been delayed. We live in Brookline and use that overpass
several times a week going to our daughter's home in Milton. We pick up our two special needs grandsons
there. Driving over that bridge is what convinced me to buy a new car and that was 3 years ago. Now my
Buick Lucerne only bounces around a bit, rather than seeming like it will go off the road. It seems to me that
more than sufficient public involvement has gone into this project and it should move forward NOW.
Respectfully,
H. Betsy Munzer
131 Kent Street
Brookline, MA 02445-6920
How long will the process be delayed?
As January quickly comes to an end, there is still no decision, or even a deadline, for the reconstruction design of the Casey
Overpass in Jamaica Plain. Evidently, the debate between raising a new bridge versus an at-grade solution is at a dead end.
The initial deadline for the project design was December 12, 2011; the alternative still has yet to be specified. For a decision
process that has lasted over nine months, the time has come to move forward and keep the project on track for its expected
completion in 2016.
1
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us> Thursday, February 09, 2012 3:41 PM Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis; Essek Petrie; McLaughlin, Steve (DOT); King, Paul C (DOT) FW: Please start the overpass project From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Please review and add to the data base of comments. Thanks, John From: Josh Ormsby rma,ilto: Sent: Thursday, February To: Romano, John (DOT) Subject: Please start the overpass project Hello, I use the Casey overpass on a daily basis in my commute, but my opinion on the "bridge v. at grade" question is really not that important. I've felt strongly about both options, and will be happy either way. I just want to project to move forward. Please no more delays. Thanks, Josh 162 Hillside St. Boston, MA 02120
Josh Ormsby
Mecahnical Engineer, Bluefin Robotics
553 South
,
MA====~--
1
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Allan lhrer <aihrer@gmail.com> Friday, February 10, 2012 1:03PM Romano, John (DOT) cathyslade1 @aol.com; wesleywilliams@post.harvard.edu; romoniadix@aol.com; burks167 @gmail.com; dmhannon@mindspring.com; kk@historicboston.org; bealm@mindspring.com; dmitchell@ethocare.org; freemansherwood@hotmail.com; m@halle.us; bob.dizon@gmail.com; deunson@gmail.com; jpmichael@rcn.com; liz@strategymatters.org; wolfslm@yahoo.com; kevin.m.wolfson@gmail.com; ewheelwright@gmail.com; ericbot@mac.com; jeffrey@ferriswheelsbikeshop.com; bcrichlow28@aol.com; wwilliams333 @verizon.net; moloneys@verizon.net; kfm@barronstad.com; fsv.jp@comcast.net; KSchneiderman@bostoncil.org; kathleen.coffey@jud.state.ma.us; schellprinting@comcast.net; dohertyjrbc@aol.com; bernard.doherty@parsons.com; ewylie325 @comcast.net; michael.epp@seacon.com; hickiem@gmail.com; david@massbike.org; nbrown@brownrowe.com; td.dougherty@yahoo.com; josephine.burr@gmail.com; vineet.gupta@cityofboston.gov; Read, John; Dalzell, John; Doherty, Jullieanne; Torres, Robert (HOU); McLaughlin, Steve (DOT); King, Paul C. (DOT); Andrea D'Amato; Nathaniel Cabrai­ Curtis; Frias, Valerie; Holmes, Russell (HOU); nathanael.shea@masenate.gov; kate.chang@mail. house.gov; aihrer@comcast. net "Build" vehicle/ped./bike intersection counts http:Uapp1.massdot.state.ma.us/Casey0verpass/downloads/2035 traffic.pdf Hi John, The rumor mill says there is additional traffic modeling taking place? Can we please get "Build" intersection counts (in the same format as the document linked to.above) for vehicles, peds, and bikes for both the Bridge and At Grade alternatives. I think this would help everyone better sort out how the two alternatives operate. Thanks much, Allan Allan lhrer 116 Williams St., #2 Jamaica Plain, MA 02130 617-595-5145, cell 617-983-5524, home aihrer@comcast.net aihrer@gmail.com 1
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us> Monday, February 13,2012 3:09PM Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis; Essek Petrie FW: Tear Down the Casey Overpass! FYI, please put with all other comments received for the Casey project.
John
From: Navin, Mark C [mailto:r-.••••11] Sent: Monday, February 13, 2012 12:10 PM To: Romano, John (DOT) Subject: Tear Down the Casey Overpass! Mr. Romano:
I wanted to forward this new article on the Casey Overpass to you, as well as a copy of an email I've sent onto Representative Malia for your files. I'm anxious to get this process moving, and would appreciate any information you may have about the status of the planning process. Thanks. http://blogs. bostonmagazine.com/boston daily/20 12/02/13/casey-overoass-jamaica-plain-bridqe-su rface-options/
"Tear Down the Casey Overpass!"
Representative Malia:
I am one of your constituents, living at 463 Arborway in Jamaica Plain. I've agreed with you on many issues before our community in the past, but have to strongly disagree with your attempts to block progress on the Casey Overpass plan. The DOT spent a year holding meetings and doing research into the best possible solution for traffic in the Forest
·Hills neighborhood, and concluded quite convincingly that an at-grade solution was the best option for all involved. I am a
firm supporter of that plan, and believe your attempts to stall forward motion are only serving to jeopardize careful
consideration of the details in the next stage of the planning. I'm also concerned that any delays may make this project
ineligible for the "accelerated" funds available now, and could result in an even worse situation than we are currently
dealing with.
I urge you to drop your opposition to the process moving forward, and allow the DOT to conclude this stage of planning at
once. My support of your continued representation of our neighborhood is contingent upon your decision in this
matter.
Mark Navin
463 Arborway, #12
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
-.
1
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Attachments:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us>
Thursday, February 16, 2012 4:57PM
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis; King, Paul C. (DOT); 'EPetrie@hntb.com'; Mclaughlin, Steve (DOT)
Fw: Casey comment: pro at-grade
Salon 170 South St.- pro at-grade. pdf
Please review and put with Casey project comments.
From: SARAH FREEMAN [mailto:freemansherwood@hotmail.coml
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 04:55 PM
To: Romano, John (DOT)
Subject: Casey comment: pro at-grade
Dear John,
Attached is a comment from the salon at 170 South St., JP, in support of the at-grade option for casey.
Thank you,
Sarah
1
Casey - Making the Case for the at-grade option:
The traffic analysis concludes that traffic can be handled at-grade. That option is a far
better outcome for Forest Hills, Emerald Necklace parks and local businesses. Some of
the benefits include:
* Removal of a massive structure that dominates the area and prevE;nts It from feeling
like an urban neighborhood. Even if they build a smaller overpass, it will be the
defining feature of the Forest Hills area since it has to go over 2 intersections
*Traffic calming: The Overpass contributes to the climate of speeding & aggressive
driving in the area. It says "we want to move cars as fast as possible"... even if they
have to sit through multiple cycles of the light at Murray Circle.
* Cost: The bridge is so much more expensive ($21 million more) that if they have to
build the bridge, it will be about the only thing we get. (See next point for detail).
* Other at-grade improvements that are ONLY possible if there is NO bridge.
If MassDOT doesn't have to pay for a bridge, there can be other improvements in the
vicinity (e.g. expansion of the bike network on the Washington St. side of Forest Hills T
Station, pedestrian access from the Southwest Corridor Park side of the road down to
the T station without having to cross the Arborway.
* Shadows: The space under an overpass is dark, dreary, attractive to pigeons who
leave a lot of debris, and often wet from drips. Not a pleasant public space.
* Noise: The high speed traffic on an overpass makes more noise than the slower at·
grade traffic, and there is an echo chamber effect.
*Graffiti. broken glass•. trash: If you look at Casey, you can find all of the above. We
have no reason to expect otherwise for a new bridge.
* Anti-social activities that can happen under a bridge. especially at night The space underneath can be a magnet for late night drug deals,. alcohol, homeless encampments etc. All of these are important social issues that need to be dealt with, but do we want to attract them here? * Total trip time is not faster wjth a bridge. The 30 to 90 second delay described in the traffic studies is for the Forest Hills section only of the trip; total rush hour trip time isn't shortened because traffic that flies through Forest Hills without stopping waits longer (multiple cycles) at next light (Murray Circle).
·
* No neighborhood should ask to harm another for their own perceived benefit. JP
wouldn't ask for a bridge through our neighboring communities to get to Rte. 128
faster!
* "Robert Moses vs. Jane Jacobs" • Robert Moses would build the bridge, even if it
harmed the neighborhood. Is that our approach ln JP?
* The Universal Hub headline is reminiscent of the Reagan quote to Gorbachev: ''Tear
down this (wall) b r i d g e " . _
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Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Attachments:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us>
Friday, February 17, 2012 8:18AM
'Essek Petrie'; Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis; King, Paul C (DOT); McLaughlin, Steve (DOT)
FW: "No new bridge" re: Casey
no new bridge. pdf
Hi All:
Please review and put with the other Casey comments received.
Thanks,
John
From: SARAH FREEMAN [mailto:freemansherwood@hotmail.coml
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 4:59 PM
To: Romano, John (DOT}
Subject: "No new bridge" re: Casey
Hi again, John,
Here's another comment re: Casey: "No new bridge".
Thank you,
Sarah Freeman
1
Casey- Making the Case for the at-grade option:
The traffic analysis concludes that traffic can be handled at-grade. That option is a far
better outcome for Forest Hills, Emerald Necklace parks and local businesses. Some of
the benefits include:
* Removal of a massjye structure that dominates the area and prevents it from feeling
like an urban neighborhood. Even if they build a smaller overpass, it will be the
defining feature of the Forest Hills area since it has to go over 2 intersections
*Traffic calming: The Overpass contributes to the climate of speeding & aggressive
driving in the area. It says "we want to move cars as fast as possible"... even if they
have to sit through multiple cycles of the light at Murray Circle.
* Cost: The bridge is so much more expensive ($21 million more) that if they have to
build the bridge, it will be about the only thing we get. (See next point for detail).
* Other at-grade improvements that are QNLY oossible if there js NO bridge.
If MassDOT doesn't have to pay for a bridge, there can be other improvements in the
vicinity (e.g. expansion of the bike network on the Washington St. side of Forest Hills T
Station, pedestrian access from the Southwest Corridor Park side of the road down to
the T station without having to cross the Arborway.
* Shadows: The space under an overpass is dark, dreary, attractive to pigeons who
leave a Jot of debris, and often wet from drips. Not a pleasant public space.
* Noise: The high speed traffic on an overpass makes more noise than the slower at­
grade traffic, and there is an echo chamber effect.
*Graffiti. broken glass, trash: If you look at Casey, you can find all of the above, We
have no reason to expect otherwise for a new bridge.
* Anti-social activities that can happen under a bridge, especially at night The space underneath can be a magnet for late night drug deals, alcohol, homeless encampments etc. All of these are important social issues that need to be dealt with, but do we want to attract them here? * Total trip time is not faster with a bridge. The 30 to 90 second delay described in the traffic studies is for the Forest Hills section only of the trip; total rush hour trip time isn't shortened because traffic that flies through Forest Hills without stopping waits longer cycles) at next light (Murray Circle). __(multiple
,.,.')
* No neighborhood should ask to harm another for their own perceived benefit. JP wouldn't ask for a bridge through our neighboring communities to get to Rte. 128 faster! * "Robert Moses vs. Jane Jacobs" - Robert Moses would build the bridge, even if it harmed the neighborhood. Is that our approach in JP? * The Universal Hub headline is reminiscent of the Reagan quote to Gorbachev: "Tear down this (wall) bridge". ~t) ·~ ~.
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Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us>
Thursday, February 23, 2012 8:31 AM
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis; Essek Petrie; Mclaughlin, Steve (DOT); King, Paul C (DOT)
FW: Modeling MBTA Bus Transit service
Hi All:
Please review this comment and put with Casey comments.
Thanks,
John
From: SARAH FREEMAN [mailto:freemansherwood@hotmail.coml
Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2012 12:17 PM
To: Romano, John (Don
Subject: Modeling MBTA Bus Transit service
Hi John,
Waul you please see the below comment, which represents David Spiller's personal/professional opinion and NOT that
of his Agency. It is in response to a statement by Paula Okunieff that there had not been Modeling MBTA Bus Transit
service for either option.
Thank you,
Sarah
Subject: RE: Fw: Casey - Professional feedback - your thoughts? Date: Wed, 22 Feb 2012 10:27:45 -0500 From:
·
To: freemansherwood@hotmail.com; pfurth@coe.neu.edu CC: p.furth@neu.edu; David.Spiller@dot.gov
I would agree with both Peter, Paula and Steve Kaiser that not modeling the MBTA bus transit service in the vicinity of
Forest Hills, and proposed priority treatments, is an information gap for both Options. MBTA bus service affects the rest
-of the traffic, and certainly impacts the signal timing. The microscopic simulation model PARAMICS is a good choice to
look at the issue (see www.paramics-online.com).
Best regards, David David Spiller
US Department of Transportation
Research and Innovative Technology Administration
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
55
MA 02142
1
Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Romano, John (DOT) <john.romano@state.ma.us> Thursday, February 23, 2012 8:01 AM Essek Petrie; Nathaniel Cabrai-Curtis; Mclaughlin, Steve (DOT); King, Paul C (DOT) FW: Casey- lntergenerational comment Hi All:
Another Casey comment.
John
From: SARAH FREEMAN [mailto:treemansherwood@hotmail.coml
Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2012 4:40 PM
To: Romano, John (Don
Subject: Casey - Intergenerational comment
Hi John,
I had a conversation today with someone in the "senior" generation who raised the following points:
In addition to the $50+ million cost difference ($20 million+ for implementation, $30 million+ for maintenance) between
options, there's another argument in favor of the at-grade option: When there is a split preference between new
bridge and at-grade, it seems to be the younger folks (20's-30's) who are thinking in terms of a more
ped/bike/transit/green future and support the at-grade vision. The pro-bridge people seem to be "the old guard". If we
are designing something for the next 50 years, shouldn't we be designing for the future generations and the vision of the
next 50 years, not the old guard and the vision of the 1950's elevated highways?
Thank you,
Sarah
·,. .i
2
Calming neighborhood traffic in Forest Hills
As advocates and residents who care deeply about the future of the Forest
Hills area, we believe that our neighborhood streets are a vital element of a
vibrant community. Every day, though, we see on those streets the unwanted
impact of poor driver behavior, including increased commuter traffic, unsafe
vehicle speeds, and driver inattention to pedestrians.
This lack of respect by drivers affects the quality of neighborhood life, the
integrity of neighborhood bonds, and the safety of residents and visitors. A
family visiting a tot lot, a child crossing the street to go to school, or an older
couple out for an evening stroll should not have to walk in fear.
The Casey Overpass replacement project, the subject of much discussion and
debate, has the potential to exacerbate these problems during its different
stages of demolition, construction, and future operations. The resulting
disruption to residential life is independent of the choice between the at­
grade or bridge alternatives.
To address these current and likely future problems, we ask that the City of
Boston undertake a comprehensive traffic calming design and
implementation project in the neighborhoods adjacent to or near the Casey
Overpass, working in coordination with Massachusetts Department of
Transportation's ongoing planning.
Traffic calming augments traditional traffic control methods such as signage
and police enforcement with engineering-based solutions designed to self­
enforce the rules of the road, increase pedestrian visibility, and reduce
vehicle speeds. Traffic calming methods range from quick and inexpensive
roadway changes to more involved modifications to intersections, curbs, and
sidewalks. Comprehensive traffic calming engages the community to choose
solutions that enhance the unique character of each neighborhood street.
Traffic calming in the Forest Hills area would go beyond simply mitigating
the negative impacts of traffic diversion during the overpass demolition and
replacement construction. It would also permanently improve driver
behavior on neighborhood streets, deter excessive cut-through traffic, and
enhance the livability of the communities near the Casey Overpass now,
during construction, and well into the future.
MassDOT should join the City as a partner in this effort by designating
Casey Overpass traffic mitigation resources to be used as part of this
comprehensive traffic plan.
We are prepared to work closely with the City and the entire community to
make this project a success. Let us look beyond any differences we may
have about the future of the Casey Overpass and commit to making our
neighborhoods safer, healthier, and more livable.
Frederick Vetterlein
Jody Burr
Julie Crockford
Bob Dizon
Don Eunson
Sarah Freeman
Michael Halle
Wendy Landman
Pete Stidman
Kevin Wolfson
Emily Wheelwright
-
February 21, 2012
Commissioner Tom Tinlin
Boston Transportation Department
Boston City Hall
One City Hall Square
Boston, MA 02201
RE: Neighborhood traffic calming at Forest Hills
Dear Commissioner Tinlin,
We are writing to you to request that the City of Boston undertake a comprehensive
traffic calming assessment, design, and implementation program in the neighborhoods
adjacent to or near the Casey Overpass, working in coordination with MassDOT's
ongoing overpass replacement planning process.
Such a project would go beyond simply mitigating the negative impacts of traffic
diversion during the overpass demolition and replacement construction. It would also
permanently improve driver behavior on neighborhood streets, deter cut-through traffic,
and enhance the livability of the communities near the Casey Overpass now, during
construction, and into the future.
This project could also serve as a model for future neighborhood traffic projects in the
city by being a visible and important expression of Boston's new Complete Streets
philosophy at the most local level.
As residents, neighbors, and advocates, we are prepared to work closely with you to
make this effort a success.
* * *
As you are doubtless aware, the Casey Overpass replacement project has been the subject
of much discussion, debate, and concern within the Forest Hills community and beyond.
Independent of the design alternative going forward, the demolition, reconstruction, and
future operation of the Casey Overpass and its replacement will have a major potential
impact on traffic in the surrounding neighborhoods.
For residents who already see more cars, higher speeds, and a disregard for pedestrians
on the streets where we live, these conditions directly affect our quality oflife and the
integrity of our neighborhood bonds. A family visiting a tot lot, a child crossing the street
to school, or an older couple out for a stroll should not have to walk in fear.
1
Several neighborhood groups have expressed their concern over these persistent
neighborhood traffic problems during the Casey replacement design process. These
groups include the Stonybrook Neighborhood Association, the Lower South Street
Neighborhood Association, the Asticou/Martinwood/South St. Neighborhood
Association, and others.
To date, the City of Boston has addressed these kinds of traffic problems by installing
stop signs on through roads, designating school or playground zones, installing advisory
signage (e.g., "Drive Slow"), reorienting of one-way streets, and using other similar
measures. The City also uses police traffic enforcement to deter and punish bad driver
behavior; unfortunately, current Boston Police staffing levels allow for only limited spot
enforcement.
The City's recent embrace of a Complete Streets approach to streetscape design and the
emergence of new traffic calming methods offer us new opportunities to enhance the
walkable, livable Boston neighborhoods we all love. These new tools are an extension of
the pilot traffic calming projects installed in the Hyde Square and Pondside areas of
Jamaica Plain in 2000 and 200 I. They also have the potential to go beyond the more
isolated features seen in neighboring communities such as Cambridge and Brookline.
While "Complete Streets" gives us optimism that our neighborhood traffic problems can
be addressed, the imminent multi-year disruption of traffic patterns that the Casey
replacement will cause provides motivation and urgency to our request for prompt action.
We welcome consideration of the entire spectrum of traffic calming options, including
low-cost techniques that can be installed quickly and evaluated for effectiveness. We also
understand that other methods may require greater resources. For this reason, we ask that
the City work with us now to begin a discussion about neighborhood traffic calming,
building support and consensus and allowing for future budgeting. We are prepared to be
your partner in this effort.
We further understand that dealing with issues of safety, snow clearance, and emergency
vehicle access are part of any change in roadway design. The Mayor's desire to see the
Complete Streets philosophy reach across all City agencies is especially welcome to help
address these issues.
2
Finally, we ask that the City engage MassDOT as a partner in this project to enable the
Commonwealth's Casey Overpass traffic mitigation resources to be used as part of this
comprehensive traffic plan.
For so many Bostonians, quality oflife is tied closely to what we see from our front
doors. Many Forest Hills residents fear the impact of the Casey Overpass replacement
project on the quality of our streets, our lives, and our community. Please work with us to
address these concerns and move beyond them to make our neighborhoods safer and
healthier.
Sincerely,
Frederick Vetterlein, Stonybrook Neighborhood Association and Casey WAG member
Michael Halle, Boston Police El3 Traffic and Parking Committee and WAG member
Jody Burr, Lower South Street Neighborhood Association and WAG member
Julie Crockford, Emerald Necklace Conservency and WAG member
Bob Dizon, JP Bikes and WAG Member
Michael Epp, JP/South Street Main Streets and WAG member
Don Eunson, WalkBoston and WAG member
Sarah Freeman, Arborway Coalition and WAG Member
Wendy Landman, WalkBoston
Pete Stidman, Boston Cyclist's Union
Emily Wheelwright, WAG member
Kevin Wolfson, Livable Streets and WAG member
CC:
City Councilor Matt 0 'Malley
City Council President Stephen J. Murphy
City Councilor Felix G. Arroyo
City Councilor John R. Connolly
City Councilor Ayanna Pressley
State Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz
State Representative Russell Holmes
State Representative Liz Malia
State Representative Jeffrey Sanchez
Jullieanne Doherty, Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services
Vineet Gupta, Boston Transportation Department
Richard A. Davey, Secretary of Transportation
Paul King, MassDOT Casey Overpass Replacement Project Manager
3