There is a confusing set of overlapping planning initiatives underway for transportation in the Allston-Brighton area. Some of them directly relate to the I-90 interchange. Others are broader.
This powerpoint that was presented to the MassDOT Board last week gives a useful overview.
I was encouraged by the questions that FMCB Chairman Aiello asked — they evidenced a strong concern for the congestion that the I-90 development will cause and a recognition that multi-modal solutions will be needed.
This shows a lot of intentions, but no actual layouts. Are they sticking with the debatable plan to make westbound traffic on Soldiers Field Road go through several traffic lights to get onto the Mass Pike? The current layout already has massive backups; forcing the cars through more lights will add noise and air pollution to an area that they’re trying to clean up and make into desirable office and/or neighborhood space.
The design details are still in flux, but for much more on the specifics under consideration, please visit MassDOT’s site for the project.