The project site spans two neighborhoods in Somerville – Brickbottom and Inner Belt. Both are auto-oriented industrial/post-industrial neighborhoods bounded by Interstate 93 to the east, Route 28 to the west, Washington Street to the north, and MBTA tracks and rail facilities to the south. The neighborhoods are separated by the Green Line and MBTA commuter rail tracks. There is no physical connection between these two neighborhoods even though they are separated by 50’ of rail right-of-way. The only way to move between the two neighborhoods is to walk on the periphery and use Washington Street. The intent of this project is to create a pedestrian/bicycle crossing of the Green Line to link these two neighborhoods and provide access from the East Somerville Green Line station. Both neighborhoods will have updated comprehensive plans and zoning changes to reflect the shift from post-industrial to mixed use and high-tech research and development . The eventual culmination of both neighborhood plans will create over 4,000 jobs and over 1,000 new dwelling units. The draft plan can be found online on SomerVoice. The impetus for this project is private development that supports the visions for these neighborhoods and increased connectivity called for in the draft neighborhood plan. There is a unique blend of stakeholders – the State Economic Development Office, MBTA, the City of Somerville, private landowners, developers, and residents. The ability to interact with these groups will be critical to the project’s success. The City has actively participated in design concepts (included herein at this link) and is analyzing concepts that include stairs, ramps, and elevators. In addition to these above-grade options, the City wishes to explore the potential for an at-grade crossing of the Green Line corridor. Furthermore, the project will be required to meet design standards from the MBTA since this project goes over state right-of-way and an active rail corridor. It is important that the connection works for pedestrians, cyclists, and people of all abilities. The final design must make all users feel comfortable using the crossing 24/7 for the project to be successful.
