Work Begins on Uptown Rotary Project in Gardner MA
Cost of the project was projected at $2.6 million in 2020 when proposed and is being covered by grants. EH Perkins Construction is the Massachusetts Department of Transportation contractor handling the up to 18 month project with a completion goal of about a year from now. Purpose is to improve safety of the intersection by creating a better traffic flow. Drainage and utility work is beginning now.
According to Mass DOT, during typical construction operations, all roadways in the project area will remain open to vehicular traffic. Occasional short traffic disruptions and travel lane – shoulder – parking lane closures may occur. Pedestrian and vehicular access to abutting properties will be maintained throughout construction.
Details of the original proposed improvements included the reconstruction of the existing intersection to meet modern roundabout standards and the following:
Central truck apron, central landscape island, splitter islands at approaches, and re-aligned intersection approaches into the intersection • Splitter islands will form entry deflection angles to reduce vehicle speeds, improving pedestrian safety • Resurface the roadway, reset curb lines and modify drainage infrastructure within the project limits • Reconstruct existing sidewalk and install new sidewalk to enhance pedestrian accommodations throughout the project limits • Construct Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) / Architectural Access Board (AAB) compliant accessible sidewalks and curb ramps within the project limits • Stripe new high-visibility ladder-style crosswalks, STOP lines, centerlines, lane lines, gore areas, parking lanes, and shoulder lines within the project limits. • Install new traffic signage