MassDOT Announces Public Hearing for St. James and Tapley Street Bridge Replacements

MassDOT is hosting a Design Public Hearing in Springfield to present the proposed replacement of the St. James Avenue and Tapley Street bridges.

The project involves replacing Bridge S-24-017 carrying St. James Avenue over CSX, Bridge S-24-071 carrying St. James Avenue over I-291, and the Tapley Street bridge designated as Bridge S-24-070. Alongside the bridge replacements, planners have slated associated roadway and traffic improvements along St. James Avenue, Page Boulevard, and the St. James Avenue/I-291 Interchange.

Officials intend for the construction work to prioritize operational efficiency and safety enhancements. Project plans also incorporate pedestrian and bicycle accommodations into the final bridge designs.

Property acquisitions represent a necessary component of the undertaking. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts will handle all needed rights in private or public lands through fee acquisitions as well as permanent or temporary easements, following policies that will be outlined during the hearing.

Project inquiries, written statements, and other exhibits can be submitted to Carrie E. Lavallee, P.E., Chief Engineer. Submissions are accepted via email at [email protected] or through US Mail directed to Suite 7210, 10 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116, Attention: Major Projects, Project File No. 612167.

Statements intended for inclusion in the official hearing transcript must be emailed or postmarked no later than ten business days after the hearing takes place.

Translation, interpretation, and other reasonable accommodations are available upon request through MassDOT. Individuals needing assistance should contact MassDOT’s Highway Project Accommodations office at [email protected] at least ten business days prior to the event. A cancellation announcement will be posted on the official website in case of inclement weather.