In the wake of Suffolk Downs unveiling of a $1 billion casino resort at its historic site, developers have released plans to ease long-standing traffic concerns in the area.
The $40 million plan includes the development of a two-lane flyover on Route 1A, more traffic lights and travel lanes, and better pedestrian access from the Suffolk Downs T station.
“Traffic problems have been affecting the businesses and residents of East Boston and Revere for too long,” said John Vitagliano, a transportation consultant for Suffolk Downs. “The transportation plan made possible only by the resort development at Suffolk Downs will address longstanding regional concerns that would otherwise be unmet. This is a unique opportunity to utilize the fiscal and economic benefits emerging from a world-class gaming, entertainment and destination resort to provide significant transportation improvements throughout our local communities.”
Suffolk Downs CEO Chip Tuttle said his team has been studying the major local intersections since 2009, and have sat down with community leaders, residents and government agencies to come up with the improvement plan.
The meat and potatoes of the traffic improvement plan are:
• Major off-site roadway improvements to address existing regional traffic issues, including a “flyover” at the Boardman Street intersection and a redesign to address longstanding deficient conditions and improve local access.
• Local roadway improvements to enhance intersection operations and safety, including supporting initiatives led by Revere to undertake reconfigured ramp connections to shift traffic from Rte 60 and Bell Circle and improve connections to Route 1A.
• Shuttle service to water transportation and Boston tourist attractions and hotels .
• Enhanced connections to Suffolk Downs MBTA station and local bus routes.
• Coordination with Massport on shared patron and employee access.
• Pedestrian and bicycle access and connections within the site.
Check out the video below to learn more about Suffolk Down’s traffic proposal:
