Newton, Mass. – As part of a multi‑year, $34 million improvement effort, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has installed elevated bike lanes along Needham Street, a heavily trafficked commercial thoroughfare that runs through the heart of Newton’s downtown district.

Project details and cost

The work, which began in the fall of 2020, includes widening the roadway, adding new traffic signals, upgrading MBTA bus stops, and installing a storm‑water basin with infiltration trenches. While the original estimate was around $29 million, the final cost has risen as construction progressed, according to MassDOT officials.

Design of the elevated lanes

The new lanes are raised above the sidewalk surface and marked with a painted bicycle symbol. They are intended to separate cyclists from both vehicular traffic and pedestrians, creating a dedicated pathway that runs alongside the existing pedestrian walkway.

Local business owners voice concerns

Marjorie Drucker, owner of New England Soup Factory and Modern Rotisserie, expressed puzzlement over the design. “I didn’t know why they did it,” she said, noting that Needham Street is already congested with delivery trucks serving local retailers such as HomeGoods and TJ Maxx. “I don’t see too many people biking on Needham Street,” Drucker added, questioning the need for the new infrastructure.

Cyclist and advocacy perspective

Doug Cornelius, chair of the advocacy group MassBike, defended the project, saying it offers an alternative transportation option that can reduce reliance on cars. He highlighted upcoming residential development and a new elementary school in the area, noting that the lanes will give children a safer route to bike to school.

Local cyclist Andres Jaramillo, who has been using the elevated path, described a learning curve. “When cars pull out of parking lots they’re not aware that the lane is there, so I have to brake hard sometimes,” he explained. He also mentioned occasional conflicts with store signage and pedestrians who inadvertently enter the bike lane. Jaramillo called for better education for businesses, drivers, and riders about the new layout.

Future timeline

MassDOT expects the entire road improvement project, including the elevated bike lanes, to be completed by the end of the year. City officials have indicated that they will monitor traffic flow and safety data once the lanes are fully operational.

Community impact

While the project aims to promote safer, more sustainable travel options, the mixed reactions underscore the challenge of balancing commercial activity, pedestrian convenience, and emerging transportation modes in a bustling downtown corridor. Residents and business owners alike will be watching closely as the lanes become a permanent feature of Needham Street.

Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.