Urban Ring options being studied

Urban Ring

The Citizens Advisory Committee continues to study possible options for the Urban Ring, and new maps have been posted for consideration. Somerville is best served by the first option (click below to view all the options), which links to the future Green Line. Other options eliminate all of Somerville except a stop at Assembly Square on the way to Lechmere, and a new loop to Harvard Square via Harvard’s new Alston campus. The choices will mostly be made between now and May, so get involved by coming to the public meeting April 10!

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STEP meeting

Topics included the MPO Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), Green Line updates, Green Line art exhibits, and grant proposals. Meeting notes (PDF)

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Draft of Regional Transportation Plan (RTP): Journey to 2030

This long-range plan is the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization's (MPO) proposed program of planned highway and public transit improvements for the region through 2030. The Green Line extensions are in here, but the status is a little vague because the new State Implementation Plan (SIP) regulations haven't yet been approved by the Federal EPA. To keep the Green Line extensions…

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STEP meeting

Topics included upcoming Green Line exhibits, Green Line status, and STEP's presence at the TRB conference in Washington. Meeting notes (PDF)

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Map shows where roadway pollution is dangerous

View map The Metropolitan Area Planning Council 2007 Calendar features a map with the following text... Heavy Traffic Affects Air Quality and Health If you live, work or attend school within 100 yards of a roadway carrying 100,000 or more vehicles per day, you are more likely to suffer from cardiac or pulmonary disease. According to local and national studies, this…

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Provost pitches bills on health impacts of pollution

From the State House News Service…
Somerville Rep Pitches Two Bills to Address Health Impacts of Air Pollution
By Priscilla Yeon
A legislator concerned with the harm caused by pollution near high-traffic roadways plans to file two bills she hopes will reduce pollution-related pulmonary and cardiac diseases.
Rep. Denise Provost (D-Somerville) said it’s time for the Legislature to address the health concerns of people who live near roadways and buildings sitting near high-traffic areas.

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