A nearly two-billion-dollar project could transform Boston's Allston neighborhood by shifting the Massachusetts Turnpike, adding a transit station and connecting the area to the Charles River, and officials are hopeful that a federal grant is awarded to help propel more momentum.
It's called the Allston Multimodal Project — a massive undertaking that's being billed as a once in a generation opportunity to "dramatically improve livability and connectivity for residents."
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The goal of the project revolves around replacing the aging Allston Viaduct, which carries I-90 over the neighborhood and around the Beacon Park train yard. Instead of the large, elevated interchange, the Pike would pass straight along train yard — allowing for new space for developments, better connectivity in the neighborhood, a safer highway and more access to the Charles River. Plus, transit access would improve with a new West Station.
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With such a high price tag, though, state officials are seeking federal help. A decision is expected within the next few weeks on a Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods grant through the Biden Administration. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation asked for $500 million in their grant application.
Although concerns have been raised over travel delays during construction — which could take up to 10 years to finish once funding is secured and the project is fully approved — the project has a lot of support, including from Gov. Maura Healey and Mayor Michelle Wu.
President and CEO of A Better City Kate Dineen sat down with NBC10 Boston to go over the project and the impact it could have on Allston, Boston and beyond. You can watch the interview at the top of this story.
