Overview

The City of Somerville, with over 90 miles of public roadways, has a complex network of vehicular infrastructure. In addition to increasing the circulation and access of pedestrian and bicycle traffic, the Transportation and Infrastructure Division also seeks to increase vehicular flow and traffic efficiency. Various studies to determine key corridors and high-demand areas are underway. The analysis of the data from these studies will help guide traffic recommendations. Such recommendations guide Traffic Management Systems (TMS), which include upgrades to modern equipment, exclusive left-turn and right-turn lane striping, traffic calming measures (islands and raised crosswalks, for example), implementation of modern roundabouts at complex intersections, and evaluation of one-way networks. In regards to roadways, the Transportation and Infrastructure Division evaluates current situations, conducts studies, and provides recommendations for policy development to prepare for growth before it happens.

Projects and Studies: The following are descriptions of recent and current studies and projects within Somerville: 

• Assembly Square Multi Modal Transportation Study: This project involves the complete redesign of the street and access networks in the Assembly Square area, including a new, redesigned Assembly Square Drive. The study will provide technical recommendations for the management of IKEA traffic in the area.
• I-93/Mystic Avenue Interchange Study: This study is one of the measures to manage increased traffic flow with future development. The I-93/Mystic Avenue Area will be studied to facilitate traffic patterns on and off the highway and local network.
• Broadway in East Somerville Streetscape Improvement: This project aims to transform Lower Broadway into an attractive pedestrian and commercial activity corridor. The design includes wide sidewalks, new street furniture and landscaping, and ADA improvements.
• Route 28 Undercarriage Design: This project aims to increase pedestrian and bicycle access near the Mystic River. The design includes an underpass to connect portions of the Mystic Reservation Bike Path under Route 28 between Assembly Square and Ten Hills.
• Union Square Transportation Study: The purpose of the study is to reevaluate the transportation analysis prepared in 2002 and determine the final design recommendations for Union Square. This process involves data gathering, analysis, identification of recommendations, public input process, City selection of the preferred alternative, and preparation of engineering drawings. The goal of the study is to identify a design alternative that will improve access, flow, and safety for all modes of transportation; maximize the useable, central public open space in the Square; and create a distinctive destination point for visitors to the area.

Safety and Regulations 

• Safe-START, or Safe Sustainable Transportation Assessment Recommendation Team, was started in 2006. The mission of this team is to increase safety for all travelers including pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists in order to create conditions on Somerville's streets, intersections, and sidewalks that increase the number of people who walk, bike, and use other sustainable transportation. For more information, see the link on the right.
• For information on regulations, please see the City Clerk. Traffic Regulations can be found in PDF format, and Municode.com catalogues other related ordinances.

 Additional Information 

• For information on parking policy and enforcement, see Traffic and Parking under City Departments, above.
• For information on ongoing street and sidewalk maintenance, approval of new curb cuts, and engineering assistance for infrastructure projects, see the Department of Public Works under City Departments,