From MassHighway:
Beginning on Thursday, October 22, 2009 a temporary reduction in the posted speed limits in the area of the work zone of the I-495 Lowell Bridge Bundle project will be implemented. This temporary reduction will lower the legal speed limit on I-495 between the Lowell Connector (Exit 35C) and Route 38 (Exit 38) from 65 miles per hour to 55 miles per hour and will remain in place until the conclusion of the project in June, 2011.
The replacement of the six bridges in the I-495 Lowell Bridge Bundle is taking place under the Patrick Administration’s historic Accelerated Bridge Program, a $3 Billion recovery effort to repair bridges throughout the state.
While drivers eventually adapt to reductions in posted speed limits, there can be some initial confusion when first implemented. This initial confusion can result in delays. MassHighway suggests that during the first several weeks the speed limit reductions are in place drivers plan ahead and allow extra time for their trips through the work zone.
The speed limit reduction is being implemented to maintain safe and efficient traffic flow through the work zone. Drivers will be alerted to the reduced speed limit through the use of both signage and Variable Message Signs (VMS). MassHighway will work with the Massachusetts State Police to monitor and enforce the new speed limit.
The Accelerated Bridge Program represents a monumental and historic investment in Massachusetts bridges. Over the next 8 years, nearly $3 billion in funding will be made available to improve the condition of bridges in every corner of the state. This program will boost safety by reducing the number of structurally deficient bridges in Merrimac Valley, while creating hundreds of construction jobs on area bridge projects.
For more information and updates about the Lowell Bridge Bundle project, visit http://mass.gov/mhd/495lowellbridgebundle.
For transportation news and updates visit the EOT blog at www.mass.gov/blog/transportation or follow EOT on twitter at www.twitter.com/massdot.
