Casey Overpass

Current Status: The Casey Arborway is under construction! LivableStreets is actively monitoring and attending meetings regarding construction updates to ensure that the project is moving forward.

Where is the Casey Overpass and why does it exist? The Casey Overpass was built in 1955 to quickly carry cars over Forest Hills from the Arboretum to Shea Circle, near Franklin Park. Though it was originally constructed as a six-lane overpass, deterioration has reduced it to just two lanes.

LivableStreets vision: We at LivableStreets strongly support the at-grade alternative. Though both alternatives (at-grade and elevated) improve circulation for all modes, only the at-grade option removes an enormous barrier that has divided neighborhoods and disconnected nearby parks from neighborhoods and each other. Further, the at-grade option leaves room in the budget to extend crucial bike, pedestrian, and transit facilities to Washington St. towards Roslindale.

What's happening? On March 8, 2012, Secretary Davey stated: "The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has selected the at-grade alternative for the Casey Overpass, which carries Route 203 over Forest Hills in Jamaica Plain. The decision was made after an extensive public outreach campaign consisting of five public meeting and 12 Working Advisory Group meetings over a nine-month period."

LivableStreets participated in the Working Advisory Group to advise MassDOT and their team of consultants on design alternatives.

Why is it important? This project is an enormous opportunity to reconnect four of the most beautiful parks in Boston, and the neighborhoods that surround them. It is an opportunity to set an example for sustainable infrastructure. And perhaps most importantly, it is an opportunity to enhance Forest Hills as a noteworthy neighborhood of its own.

What can you do? Attend the meeting on May 7, 2015. More details here.

Find out more about the current public process on the MassDOT project site here >>

Support this project by making a donation or becoming a LivableStreets member today. LivableStreets is your voice for better biking, walking, and public transit to create safe streets and vibrant communities - making the Boston region a better place to live, work, and play.
 
The following handout was created by LivableStreets in anticipation of the Nov 21, 2011 public meeting. The Key Points are still relevant:

 
Want more information, or have questions? contact LivableStreets at [email protected]