December 2024:
No work week of December 23rd due to Christmas Holidays
Week of December 2:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Drainage Issue
- River St: Memorial to Blackstone: Sewer Main Installations
- Fairmont Ave & Fairmont St: Remove tree protection
- Rockwell St: Brick Sidewalk and Driveway work
- Laurel St and Kelly Road: Prepare for Winter months
Week of December 9:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Utility work
- River St: Memorial Drive to Blackstone St: Water and Sewer Main Installation
- Rockwell St: Brick sidewalk and Driveways
- Laurel, Kelly Road and Rockwell St: Prepare for Winter Months
Week of December 16:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Utility Work
- River St: Memorial DR to Blackstone St: Water Main and Sewer Installations
- Blackstone St: Utility work
Week of December 23:
- No work this week due to Christmas Holiday
Week of December 30:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Utility work
- Form and Pour Light Foundations
- Franklin and Magazine St: Traffic Changes
- River St: Memorial Drive to Blackstone St: Sewer Main Installation
- Putnam Ave to Blackstone St: Sewer Main Installation
- Fairmont Ave/St: Temp Traffic Paint
CONSTRUCTION NOTICE: Fairmont Ave / Fairmont St / Rockwell St / Laurel St / Kelly Rd
Dear Cambridgeport Neighbor:
We are pleased to provide this update as we near the end of the roadway/sidewalk construction season:
Fairmont Avenue and Fairmont Street
- Final “top course” paving on these streets is scheduled for Monday, November 18 (weather permitting).Parking and driving will be prohibited on both streets for most of the day. It is expected the street will be re-opened to traffic at around 4:00 PM on Monday, subject to weather and temperature.
- Sidewalk work, adjustment of utility covers to final grade, and minor pavement shimming will be completed on or before November 15.
- Tree planting will be performed this fall by the City after final paving is complete.
- Traffic and parking signs will be completed after final paving. The interim “no parking” zones on Fairmont Ave will be re-striped after final paving.The Fairmont Avenue special color coating will be applied in spring 2025.
- The raised crosswalk at the River Street/Fairmont Street intersection will be constructed later as part of River Street construction.
Rockwell Street
- Curb and sidewalk work will be completed before November 16. Traffic and parking signs will be installed soon after.
- Final paving and tree planting will be performed in spring 2025.For this winter, utility grates and covers will be adjusted to be flush with the existing “intermediate” pavement layer.
- The raised crosswalk at the River Street/Rockwell Street intersection will be constructed later as part of River Street construction.
Laurel Street and Kelly Road
- Curb, sidewalk, final paving, and tree planting will be completed in Spring 2025.
- For this winter, utility grates and covers will be adjusted to be flush with the existing “intermediate” pavement layer.
What to expect during this construction: (note all dates are approximate)
- Work will occur during normal weekday hours of 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
- Vehicle access will be maintained for abutters whenever possible, although Fairmont Avenue and Fairmont Street will be impacted during final paving as noted above.
For Information and Assistance During Construction
Cambridge DPW staff will be on-site during this construction work and will be available to respond to questions and concerns.
In addition, if you have general questions or concerns about this work or the project in general, you may contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov. More information about the project in general, can be found at www.Cambridgema.gov/RiverStreet
In case of a construction emergency, please call the Cambridge Public Works Department 24-hour hotline at 617-349-4800.
Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding during this construction.
Construction Notice: New Traffic Pattern Magazine Street and Franklin Street
Dear Neighbor:
As part of the River Street reconstruction project, some permanent changes to the traffic patterns near Central Square will be implemented in the coming weeks.
The changes are as follows (a diagram of these changes is also shown below):
One-Way Magazine Street, between Green Street and Franklin Street
- The block of Magazine Street between Green Street and Franklin Street will become one way for vehicles. The direction will be southbound (from Green to Franklin). All traffic coming up Magazine Street from Cambridgeport will need to either turn right or left (see below) at Franklin Street.
- There will be a contra-flow bicycle lane allowing northbound bicycle traffic in this block.
- Parking and loading will remain on the east side of the street, abutting the Church Corner Apartments, but will face south instead of north. Parking meters will also be installed.
- Parking and loading zones will be added to the west (Church) side of the street.
Two-Way Franklin Street, between River Street and Magazine Street
- The block of Franklin Street between River Street and Magazine Street will become two-way.
- There will be no parking or loading on either side of this block. Replacement parking and loading will be provided on Magazine Street adjacent to the Church.
- Later in the project, the two-way section of Franklin will be extended to Western Avenue. For now, all westbound traffic in this block will turn right onto River Street.
For Information and Assistance During Construction
Cambridge DPW staff will be on-site during this work and will be available to respond to questions and concerns. Please pay careful attention to the new signs and pavement markings which will be installed.
In addition, if you have general questions or concerns about this work or the project in general, you may contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov. More information about the project in general, can be found at www.CambridgeMA.gov/RiverStreet
In case of a construction emergency, please call the Cambridge Public Works Department 24-hour hotline at 617-349-4800.
November 2024:
Week of November 4th
No work on November 5th due to election day.
- Carl Barron Plaza: Utility Work
- River St: Between Franklin and Mass Ave Traffic Light foundations
- Between Memorial Dr and Blackstone St Sewer Main Installation
- Rockwell St: Curb and Sidewalk work
- Fairmont St: Raised Crossings
Week of November 11th
- Carl Barron Plaza: Utility Work
- Plant trees at Ribbon Structure
- River St: Memorial Dr to Blackstone St Water Main work
- Franklin St and Magazine St: Mark outs for traffic changes
- Rockwell St: Curb and Sidewalk work
- Concrete work and base paving
- Fairmont St: Back of sidewalk work
Week of November 18th
- Carl Barron Plaza: Plant Trees and Drainage installation
- River St: Putnam Ave to Blackstone St Test Pits
- Memorial Drive to Blackstone St Sewer and Water Main Installation
- Franklin St & Magazine St: Traffic Changes
- Fairmont St & Fairmont Ave: Final Paving
- Fairmont St & Rockwell St: Brick sidewalk work and permanent signage
Week of November 25
No work on November 28 and 29th due to Thanksgiving Holiday
- Carl Barron Plaza: Drainage and Utility work
- River St: Memorial Drive to Blackstone St: Sewer Main Installation
- Fairmont St, Fairmont Ave & Rockwell St: Add Flexipave to tree wells in area.
CONSTRUCTION NOTICE: Raised Crosswalks Construction and Road Closure on Fairmont St. at Magazine St./Fairmont St. at Pleasant St./Andrew St. at Fairmont St.
The City’s contractor P. Gioioso & Sons (PGS) will begin construction of raised crosswalks at the following locations on or about October 28:
- Fairmont St @ Magazine St (crosswalk across Fairmont Street)
- Fairmont St @ Pleasant St (south/east crosswalk across Fairmont Street only. The existing raised “north/west” crosswalk does not require work)
- Andrew St @ Fairmont St (crosswalk across Andrew Street)
Construction of the raised crosswalks requires each crosswalk to be closed, in sequence, to vehicular traffic for approximately 2 days each. These closures will be in effect full time, including nights, and if needed, weekends.
What to expect during this construction:
- Work will mostly occur during normal weekday hours of 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Saturday work is possible, and per City Noise Ordinance would start no earlier than 9 AM.
- As mentioned above, the impacted crosswalks will need to be closed to traffic “24/7” for about 2 days. During these times, the affected sections of Fairmont and Andrew Streets will function as “dead-end” streets, with vehicular access at only one end. “Wrong-way” travel will be required on these one-way streets. As the streets are narrow and difficult to turn around in, we encourage residents to limit vehicular trips as much as possible during this time.
- Pedestrian access will be maintained at each end throughout.
For Information and Assistance During Construction
Cambridge DPW staff and staff from our consultant HDR, Inc. will be on-site during this construction work and will be available to respond to questions and concerns.
In addition, if you have general questions or concerns about this work or the project in general, you may contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov. More information about the project in general, can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/riverst
In case of a construction emergency, please call the Cambridge Public Works Department 24-hour hotline at 617-349-4800.
CONSTRUCTION NOTICE: Raised Crosswalk Construction and Road Closures Fairmont Avenue
The City’s contractor P. Gioioso & Sons (PGS) will begin construction of the raised crosswalks at each end of Fairmont Avenue on or about October 18.
As you may remember, these raised crosswalks will be constructed of concrete and include an adjacent strip of brick-like pavers. These treatments will emphasize pedestrian priority and serve as a physical and visual “threshold” to the Fairmont Ave Shared Street. Construction of these features will, however, require each crosswalk (Fairmont Ave at Fairmont St; and Fairmont Ave at Allston St) to be closed, in sequence, to vehicular traffic for approximately 4-5 days each. These closures will be in effect full time, including nights and weekends.
What to expect during this construction:
- Most work will occur during normal weekday hours of 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. To speed construction, PGS may also work on one or two Saturdays. In accordance with City Noise Regulations, Saturday starts will be no earlier than 9:00 AM.
- As mentioned above, due to the nature of the work, the end of the street being worked on will also need to be closed to traffic during off-hours. During these times Fairmont Ave will function as a “dead-end” street, with vehicular access at only one end or the other. As the street is narrow and difficult to turn around in, we encourage residents to limit vehicular trips as much as possible during this time.
- Pedestrian access will be maintained at each end throughout.
For Information and Assistance During Construction:
Cambridge DPW staff and staff from our consultant HDR, Inc. will be on-site during this construction work and will be available to respond to questions and concerns.
In addition, if you have general questions or concerns about this work or the project in general, you may contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov. More information about the project in general, can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/riverst
In case of a construction emergency, please call the Cambridge Public Works Department 24-hour hotline at 617-349-4800.
October 2024:
No Work on October 14th due to holiday
Week of September 30:
- River St: Various Test Pits
- Blackstone St: Drain Installation
- Fairmont St: Sidewalk Installations North East Side of Street
- Curb Installations on Southwest Side of street
- Rockwell St: Sidewalk Installations South West side of street
Week of October 7:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Structural Soil Installations
- River St (Memorial to Blackstone): Water main installation
- Fairmont St: Sidewalk installations north east side
- Curb Installation south west side of the street
Week of October 14:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Structural Soil Installations
- River St: Memorial to Blackstone: Water Main Installations
- Rockwell St: Install base paving for brick work
- Fairmont Ave: Raised Crosswalks foundations
- Fairmont St: Curb & Sidewalk Installation
Week of October 21:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Drainage Installations
- River St: Traffic light foundations between Franklin and Mass Ave
- Memorial Drive to Blackstone Street: Sewer Main Installations
- Fairmont Ave: Raised Crosswalks
- Fairmont Street: Curb and Sidewalk work
- Rockwell St: Brick work on South West side of street
Week of October 28:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Drain installation
- River St: Traffic Light Foundations between Franklin and Mass Ave
- Memorial to Blackstone St: Sewer Main installation
- Fairmont St: Sidewalk installations
- Raised Crossing foundations
- Rockwell St: Curb installations
- Brick work on South West side of street
- Fairmont Ave: Raised Crossing foundations
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE: Fairmont Ave Shared Street Construction
As we near the end of the 2024 construction season, we wanted to provide this update on construction of the Shared Street, and also thank you for your continued patience! We understand that with the street only partially completed there have been some questions about street operations, and we wanted to address those questions and concerns as well.
What will be completed this year, and what will be finished in the spring?
- Weather permitting, we expect that all curb, sidewalks, the raised crosswalks at each end of the street, and final top course paving will be complete by the first or second week of November.
- In terms of landscaping, we expect that all the new trees on the street will be planted this fall. Other plantings at the new “garden” areas will be performed in the spring.
- The special colored street surface will need to wait until the spring, due to temperature requirements for its placement.
Interim measures until full completion
Although critical elements of the shared street design will be completed soon (most notably the raised crosswalks), we are taking additional temporary measures to better alert drivers and make pedestrians more comfortable using the street.
- Variable Message Boards are being installed at each end of the street and will remain in place until permanent signs and surface coatings are completed. These are high visibility signs which will alert drivers that pedestrians are sharing the road with vehicles.
- We have marked out critical “no parking” zones on the “odd” side of the street, so that each property has its intended pedestrian connection to the street clear of parked vehicles. (Note that the pedestrian access for some properties is via the nearest driveway. We have not specifically marked “no parking” at driveways, as this should be generally understood).
- Once the final paving is done in a few weeks, we will again replicate these “no parking” zones on the new asphalt. (Note that in the final condition, once the colored surface has been placed next spring, “parking” rather than “no parking” zones will be delineated.
- We are also re-installing parking regulation signs.
Additional measures being evaluated
We understand that the operations on a shared street will take some getting used to by both pedestrians and drivers. To ensure residents are comfortable using the street, and that drivers have clear expectations, we are evaluating additional short- and long-term measures beyond what the current design includes. We will follow-up with residents on recommendations in the coming weeks via another update.
Upcoming Parking and Access Disruptions
As noted above, the most significant construction elements remaining for the coming weeks are the raised crosswalks and final paving. As more specific dates for these operations are determined, we will issue construction notices accordingly.
- As will be detailed in these future notices, the raised crosswalk construction will require each end of the street (one end at a time) to be closed to vehicle access, 24/7, for several days. This will require drivers to alter their routes accordingly.
- For final paving, (similar to the “base” course paving which was done this past summer), the street will need to be completely clear of parked vehicles for a day.
For Information and Assistance During Construction
Cambridge DPW staff will be on-site during this construction work and will be available to respond to questions and concerns.
In addition, if you have general questions or concerns about this work or the project in general, you may contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov. More information about the project in general, can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/riverstreet
In case of a construction emergency, please call the Cambridge Public Works Department 24-hour hotline at 617-349-4800.
Construction Notice: Roadway Striping on Fairmont Ave Tuesday, October 8th
Thank you for your continued patience throughout the construction on Fairmont Avenue. We understand there are questions about how the shared street will operate this winter as we approach the end of the construction season.
We are currently finalizing the installation dates for safety features, landscaping, and other key measures, and will be providing an update with further details shortly.
In the meantime, please be aware that the contractor will be striping critical 'No Parking' zones on the odd side of the street this Tuesday, October 8.
We appreciate your cooperation and will continue to keep you informed as the project progresses.
What to Expect During Construction:
- General work hours will be 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- On street-parking spaces will be impacted during this work. Paper signs will indicate the hours and locations where parking is not allowed. These signs will be posted at least 24 hours before restrictions are in effect.
- Emergency vehicles and City services will maintain access at all times.
Information & Assistance:
If you have any questions about the paving operations or need assistance, including any special needs or disabilities that require a special accommodation, Contact Kristen Kelleher, Community Relations Manager, at 617-349-4825/kkelleher@cambridgema.gov. In case of an emergency after hours, please call the 24-Hour line at 617 349-4800.
Construction Notice: Curb and Sidewalk work on Rockwell Street
As part of the larger River Street project, the City’s contractor P. Gioioso & Sons (PGS) will begin curb and sidewalk reconstruction on Rockwell Street on or about Tuesday October 1.
What to expect during this construction:
- Work will occur during normal weekday hours of 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
- PGS will begin by removing the existing sidewalk material, then removing/repositioning the curb based on the road design. Once the existing sidewalk is stripped and the curb is set, new sidewalks will be installed.
- We expect that vehicle access will, in general, be maintained through the work zone, although portions of the street or individual driveways will be blocked from access at times. We ask that motorists drive through the construction zone slowly, both during and outside of working hours. After work-hours, roadways will reopen for normal travel. Please look for construction signs, as they may be changing frequently during the work.
- Pedestrians should use caution if needing to walk in areas where sidewalks have been removed and not yet replaced. PGS expects to maintain an open sidewalk on at least one side of the street at all times.
- It is anticipated that PGS will begin work on the “even” side of the street. Once this entire side is complete, work will be performed on the “odd” side.
On-Street Parking and Loading
- On-street parking spaces will be impacted during this work. The exact number and location of the impacted spaces will change as the work progresses. Drivers should pay careful attention to parking restrictions, which will be posted at least 48 hours in advance.
- Please note that you may see “No Parking” signs placed in advance of actual work on the street. These restrictions are important, as crews will need to perform mark-outs and other preparatory work in advance of actual construction.
- PGS and the City will work with individual abutters to accommodate special access needs during construction.\
- Access will be maintained for City services such as trash/recycling, and emergency vehicles.
What’s Next After This?
- As part of this work, tree wells as well as soils beneath the adjacent sidewalks, will be prepared with sand-based structural soil, horticultural soils, etc.
- Actual planting of trees will occur later this Fall.
- After curb and sidewalk work is complete, the final layer of asphalt pavement will be placed. We will provide more information on paving schedules as the work progresses.
For Information and Assistance During Construction
Cambridge DPW staff will be on-site during this construction work and will be available to respond to questions and concerns.
In addition, if you have general questions or concerns about this work or the project in general, you may contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov. More information about the project in general, can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/riverstreet
In case of a construction emergency, please call the Cambridge Public Works Department 24-hour hotline at 617-349-4800.
Construction Notice: Curb and Sidewalk work on Fairmont Street
As part of the larger River Street project, the City’s contractor P. Gioioso & Sons (PGS) will begin curb and sidewalk reconstruction on Fairmont Street the week of September 16.
What to expect during this construction:
- Work will occur during normal weekday hours of 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
- PGS will begin by removing the existing sidewalk material, then removing/repositioning the curb based on the road design. Once the existing sidewalk is stripped and the curb is set, new sidewalks will be installed.
- We expect that vehicle access will, in general, be maintained through the work zone, although portions of the street or individual driveways will be blocked from access at times. We ask that motorists drive through the construction zone slowly, both during and outside of working hours. After work-hours, roadways will reopen for normal travel. Please look for construction signs, as they may be changing frequently during the work.
- Pedestrians should use caution if needing to walk in areas where sidewalks have been removed and not yet replaced. PGS expects to maintain an open sidewalk on at least one side of the street at all times.
- It is anticipated that PGS will begin work on the “odd” side of the street, working from River Street towards Magazine Street. Once this entire side is complete, work will be performed on the “even” side.
On-Street Parking and Loading
- On-street parking spaces will be impacted during this work. The exact number and location of the impacted spaces will change as the work progresses. Drivers should pay careful attention to parking restrictions, which will be posted at least 48 hours in advance.
- Please note that you may see “No Parking” signs placed in advance of actual work on the street. These restrictions are important, as crews will need to perform mark-outs and other preparatory work in advance of actual construction.
- PGS and the City will work with individual abutters to accommodate special access needs during construction.
- Access will be maintained for City services such as trash/recycling, and emergency vehicles.
What’s Next After This?
- As part of this work, tree wells as well as soils beneath the adjacent sidewalks, will be prepared with sand-based structural soil, horticultural soils, etc.
- Actual planting of trees will occur later this Fall.
- After curb and sidewalk work is complete, the final layer of asphalt pavement will be placed. We will provide more information on paving schedules as the work progresses.
For Information and Assistance During Construction
Cambridge DPW staff will be on-site during this construction work and will be available to respond to questions and concerns.
In addition, if you have general questions or concerns about this work or the project in general, you may contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov. More information about the project in general, can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/riverstreet
In case of a construction emergency, please call the Cambridge Public Works Department 24-hour hotline at 617-349-4800.
September 2024:
Week September 2:
No work on September 2nd due to Labor Day Holiday
- Pleasant St: @ Pleasant Place Drainage Installations
- Carl Barron Plaza: Bus Shelter #1 Foundations Walls
- Fairmont Ave: Curb & Sidewalk Installations
Week of September 9:
- River St: Memorial to Blackstone St test pits
- Blackstone St: Water Service Connections
- Carl Barron Plaza: Form Bus Shelter Foundations
- Fairmont Ave: Curb and Sidewalk Installations
Week of September 16:
- River St: Memorial to Blackstone St test pits
- Carl Barron Plaza: Structural Soil Installation
- Form Bus Shelter Foundations
- Blackstone St: Water Service Connections
- Fairmont Ave: Curb and Sidewalk Installations
- Fairmont Street: Curb and Sidewalk Installations on North East side of Street.
Week of September 23:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Drainage Installation
- Blackstone St: Drain Installations
- Fairmont Ave: Planting Soils Installation
- Fairmont Street: Curb and Sidewalk Installations on the North East side of the Street.
Week of September 30:
- River St: Various Test Pits
- Blackstone St: Drain Installation
- Fairmont St: Sidewalk Installations North East Side of Street
- Curb Installations on Southwest Side of street
- Rockwell St: Sidewalk Installations South West side of street
August 2024:
Week of August 5:
- Blackstone St: Water Service Connections
- Side Streets Along River St: Curb & Sidewalk Installations
Week of August 12:
- Blackstone St: Drain Installations
- Side Streets Along River St: Curb and Sidewalk Installations
Week of August 19:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Structural Soil Installation
- Blackstone St: Water Service Connections
- Side Streets Along River St: Curb and Sidewalk Installations.
Week of August 26:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Sand Based Structural Soil Installations
- Form Bus Shelter #1 Foundation Walls
- Blackstone St: Water Service Connections
- Side Streets Along River St: Curb and Sidewalk installations for Fairmont Ave and Fairmont St
Construction Notice: Fairmont Ave / Fairmont St / Rockwell St / Laurel St / Kelly Rd Curb and Sidewalk Work
As part of the larger River Street project, the City’s contractor P. Gioioso & Sons (PGS) will begin curb and sidewalk reconstruction on Fairmont Ave, Fairmont St, Rockwell St, Laurel St, and Kelly Rd on or about July 22, 2024.
The work will begin on Fairmont Avenue, and in general one street will be worked on at a time. The work on all streets is expected to be completed by the end of this construction season, around mid-November 2024.
What to expect during this construction: (note all dates are approximate)
- Work will occur during normal weekday hours of 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
- For each street, PGS will begin by removing the existing sidewalk material, then removing/repositioning the curb based on the road design. Once the existing sidewalk is stripped and the curb is set, new sidewalks will be installed.
- At the end of each day, PGS will clean the work site to allow motorists to use the roadway. We ask that motorists drive through the construction zone slowly, both during and outside of working hours.
- Vehicle access will be maintained for abutters whenever possible, although streets or individual driveways may be blocked from access at times. During work hours, drivers may be directed to travel the “wrong way” down one-way streets to reach their home. Caution should be used. After work-hours, roadways will reopen for normal travel. Please look for construction signs, as they may be changing frequently during the work.
- Pedestrians should use caution if needing to walk in areas where sidewalks have been removed and not yet replaced. PGS will attempt to maintain an open sidewalk on at least one side of each street at all times.
On-Street Parking and Loading
- On-street parking spaces will be impacted during this work. The exact number and location of the impacted spaces will change as the work progresses. Drivers should pay careful attention to parking restrictions, which will be posted at least 48 hours in advance.
- Please note that you may see “No Parking” signs placed in advance of actual work on your street. These restrictions are important, as crews will need to perform mark-outs and other preparatory work in advance of actual construction.
- PGS and the City will work with individual abutters to accommodate special access needs during construction.
- Access will be maintained for City services such as trash/recycling, and emergency vehicles.
What’s Next After This?
- As part of this work, tree wells and other planting areas, as well as soils beneath the sidewalks, will be prepared with sand-based structural soil, horticultural soils, etc.
- Actual planting of trees and other landscape materials will occur either this Fall, or in Spring of 2025, depending on work progress.
- After curb and sidewalk work is complete, the final top 2-inches of asphalt pavement will be placed. We will provide more information on paving schedules as the work progresses
Fairmont Avenue Shared Street – Special Considerations
- As sidewalks begin to be removed on Fairmont Avenue, the street will begin to function as a “Shared Street” as planned.
- Note that several important Shared Street features (raised crosswalks at each end; special signage; special pavement coloration) will not be in place until later in the construction sequence. PGS will post special signage alerting motorists to the Shared Street condition; however, we ask pedestrians to use extra caution when walking in the road during this interim condition.
For Information and Assistance During Construction
Cambridge DPW staff will be on-site during this construction work and will be available to respond to questions and concerns.
In addition, if you have general questions or concerns about this work or the project in general, you may contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov. More information about the project in general, can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/riverstreet
In case of a construction emergency, please call the Cambridge Public Works Department 24-hour hotline at 617-349-4800.
July 2024:
Week of July 1:
*No work on Thursday July 4th due to Holiday
- Carl Barron Plaza: Excavate for ribbon and form Bus Shelter
- Form and Pour Bus Shelter #1 foundation and columns
- Blackstone St: Water Main installations
Week of July 8:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Excavate for ribbon and bus shelter foundations
- Form and Pour Bus Shelter #1 Foundation Walls
- Various Locations: Test pits
- Blackstone St: Drain installation
Week of July 15:
- Blackstone St: Water Service Connection to Hydrant
- Various Location Along River St: Test Pits
Week of July 22:
- Blackstone St: Drain installation
- Side Streets Along River St: Curb & Sidewalk Installations
Week of July 29:
- Blackstone St: Drainage Installation
- Side Streets Along River St: Curb and Sidewalk Installations
**UPDATED**CONSTRUCTION NOTICE: Full Depth Pavement Rehabilitation on Rockwell St, Kelly Rd
Due to wet weather paving on Rockwell St, Kelly Rd to begin week of Monday, June 10, 2024
As part of the larger River Street project, the City’s contractor P. Gioioso & Sons (PGS) will begin full-depth pavement rehabilitation on Rockwell St and Kelly Rd on Monday, June 10, 2024.
The process involves removing the existing roadway asphalt, regrading the roadway, and paving with binder base course. Paving is scheduled for the week of June 10, weather permitting. If conditions are wet on the day of scheduled paving, the work will be delayed. Rescheduling updates will be posted on the project page www.cambridgema.gov/RiverStreet
What to expect during construction:
- Work will occur during normal weekday hours of 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
- Please check posted No Parking signs.
- Roadway access will be maintained for abutters whenever possible, although individual driveways will not be accessible at times. After work hours, roadways will reopen and access to driveways will be restored.
- The roadway will be lower, making curbs higher for parked cars. Please use caution when opening car doors, so as not to damage them on the curbs.
- Access will be maintained for City services and emergency vehicles.
What’s Next After This?
PGS will bring the utility covers up to grade, reconstruct sidewalks, and the roadway will be paved with the final top layer. Project page updates and additional notices will be provided.
For Information and Assistance During Construction
Cambridge DPW staff and resident engineers will be on-site during this construction work and will be available to respond to questions and concerns.
If you have general questions or concerns about this work or the project in general, you may contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov. More information about the project in general, can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/RiverStreet. If you have any special need or disability, please contact us to arrange for special accommodation that may be necessary.
June 2024:
Week of May 27:
No work on May 27 due to Holiday
- Carl Barron Plaza: Excavate for Ribbon and Bus station foundation
- Form and Pour ribbon foundations
- Blackstone St: Water installations
- River St at Memorial Drive: Relocate water main and install a sewer manhole
Week of June 3:
- River St & Western Ave (Mass Ave to Green St): Install irrigation along with conduit and pipes
- River @ Memorial Drive: Sewer Manhole Installation
- Blackstone: Water Main installation
- Carol Barron Plaza: Form ribbon & bus shelter foundations
- Rockwell and Kelly Road: pavement and gravel installation, then follow up
Week of June 10:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Excavate for Ribbon and Bus Shelter Foundations
- Form Bus Shelter #1 Foundations
- Curb and Sidewalk repairs
- Blackstone St: Water installation
- Neighborhood Side Streets: Curb & Sidewalk installations
Week of June 17:
No Work on June 19th due to Holiday
- River St: Green to Kinnaird Drainage and Hydrant Installation
- Carl Barron Plaza: Drainage work
- Form Bus Shelter #1 Foundation
- Blackstone St: Water main work
- Neighborhood Side Streets: Water gate work
Week of June 24:
- Carl Barron Plaza: Excavate for Ribbon and Bus Shelter foundations
- Pour Ribbon footing
- Form Bus Shelter #1 foundations
- River St: Various of test pits along River St
- Blackstone: Water Main Installation
- Neighborhood Side Streets: Curb & Sidewalk installations
CONSTRUCTION NOTICE: Full Depth Pavement Rehabilitation
Fairmont Ave / Fairmont St / Rockwell St / Laurel St / Kelly Rd
As part of the larger River Street project, the City’s contractor P. Gioioso & Sons (PGS) will begin full-depth pavement rehabilitation on Fairmont Ave, Fairmont St, Rockwell St, Laurel St, and Kelly Rd on or about May 13, 2024.
This process will ensure that roadway conditions will be favorable for many years to come. It involves removing and replacing the existing asphalt, and some of the underlying gravel base. Total depth of removal and replacement is expected to be about 6-10 inches.
What to expect during this construction: (note all dates are approximate)
- Work will occur during normal weekday hours of 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
- The initial work, which will occur on all the streets during the week of May 13, will be the removal and temporary plating of utility covers.
- After utility covers have been removed and plated, the current plan is to work on Fairmont St., Fairmont Ave., and Laurel St. before Memorial Day; and Rockwell St., and Kelly Rd during the first week or two of June. Signs will be posted on each street in advance, with more precise dates. No significant work is expected during the holiday week of May 27 – 31.
- For each street, the sequence of work will be:
o Removal of asphalt and supplementing/re-grading the gravel base
o Adjusting and replacing utility covers and placing asphalt “binder course”
- For each street, the entire sequence above should take 1-2 weeks. For part of that time, the road will be unpaved, with a gravel surface. The roadway will also be lower, making the curbs higher for parked cars. Please use caution when opening car doors as to not damage them on the curbs.
- Vehicle access will be maintained for abutters whenever possible, although individual driveways may be blocked from access at times. During work hours, drivers may be directed to travel the “wrong way” down one-way streets to reach their home. Caution should be used. After work-hours, roadways will reopen for normal travel.
On-Street Parking and Loading
- On-street parking spaces will be impacted during this work. The exact number and location of the impacted spaces will change as the work progresses. Drivers should pay careful attention to parking restrictions, which will be posted at least 48 hours in advance.
- Parking will also be impacted during “off-hours”, as PGS will need to store several large pieces of equipment on the street.
- PGS and the City will work with individual abutters to accommodate special access needs during construction.
- Access will be maintained for City services such as trash/recycling, and emergency vehicles.
What’s Next After This?
- After pavement rehabilitation is complete, PGS will begin to reset roadway curb, reconstruct sidewalks and prepare tree and planting areas. This work is expected to begin in mid-June, and we will provide more detailed notices and schedules in advance of that work.
- After curb and sidewalk work is complete, the final top 2-inches of asphalt pavement will be placed.
Fairmont Street and Rockwell Street parking changes:
- As presented during the design phase of the project, there will be permanent changes to parking layouts on Fairmont Street and Rockwell Street. We will be communicating with residents of these streets separately regarding the implementation of these changes. Please look for flyers which will be delivered in the coming weeks.
Fairmont Avenue “shared street”:
- We invite residents of Fairmont Avenue to join us “on the street” on June 6, 5 PM – 7 PM to discuss proposed landscape plantings for the Shared Street. (Rain Date June 11) We will provide flyers with more information in the coming weeks.
For Information and Assistance During Construction:
Cambridge DPW staff will be on-site during this construction work and will be available to respond to questions and concerns.
In addition, if you have general questions or concerns about this work or the project in general, you may contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov. More information about the project in general, can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/RiverStreet
May 2024:
Week of May 6:
- River St: Green St to Kinnaird St, Water Services and Drainage Work
- Carl Baron Plaza: Ribbon Foundations, Test Pits, Bus Shelter Foundation
- River St & Western Ave: Mass Ave to Green St, Drain Installation
- Blackstone St: Water Main Installation
Week of May 13:
- Pleasant St and Fairmont Ave: Lead Water Service Replacements
- River St: Green to Kinnaird Drainage
- Carl Barron Plaza: Excavate for Ribbon/Bus Shelter Foundations
- Fairmont St, Fairmont Ave, Laurel St, Rockwell St & Kelly Road: Remove, Stack & Plate Castings
- Fairmont St & Rockwell St: Drainage
Week of May 20:
- River St & Western Ave: Drainage
- River St @ Blackstone St & River St @ Western Ave: Backfill and Pave Pits
- Carl Barron Plaza: Form Ribbon Foundations
- Fairmont Ave, Fairmont St & Laurel St: Pavement Removal & Gravel Installation
- Binder Course Pavement Installation
Week of May 27:
No work on May 27 due to Holiday
- Carl Barron Plaza: Excavate for Ribbon and Bus station foundation
- Form and Pour ribbon foundations
- Blackstone St: Water installations
- River St at Memorial Drive: Relocate water main and install a sewer manhole
River Street Infrastructure & Streetscape Project Neighborhood Appreciation Day! Sunday, April 28, 12-3 p.m., Riverside Press Park, 880 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, MA
We truly appreciate your patience and support as we continue construction to improve our streets and sidewalks. As a small thank you, come join project staff to celebrate the bright future of the River Street neighborhood. Learn more about the project, the current construction schedule, and view designs and renderings of River Street, Tubman Square, and Carl Barron Plaza.
Free Food, Free Face Painting, Free Bike Tune-Ups: Bring you bike for a complimentary tune-up and get ready to ride this spring, Live Music. View the Event Flyer here.
River Street Reconstruction Project Coffee Talk Session, Tuesday, April 23, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Residents, business owners and their employees are invited to stop by a Coffee Talk to meet with City staff and contractors to ask questions related to the River Street Reconstruction Project.
April 2024:
Week of April 1:
- River St: Water Services
- Green St: Drainage work
- Blackstone St: Test Pits
Week of April 8:
- River St: Green St to Kinnaird St Water Services & Drainage work
- & Western Ave: Mass Ave to Green St Drainage installations
- Blackstone St: Test Pits
- Carl Barron Plaza: Pave pedestrian walkways
Week of April 15:
No work on Monday April 15th due to Patriots Day Holiday
- River St: Green to Kinnaird St water services & drainage work
- & Western Ave: Mass Ave to Green St drain installation
- Magazine St: Green to Franklin St water services
- Carl Barron Plaza: Ribbon Foundation
Week of April 22:
- River St @ Pleasant St: Move Fire Hydrant
- & Western Ave: Mass Ave to Green St Drain installations
- Magazine St: Green to Franklin St Water services
- Carl Barron Plaza: Test Pits & Ribbon Foundations
Week of April 29:
- River St: Green to Kinnaird Drainage installations
- Water Services
- Mass Ave to Green drain installations
- Carl Barron Plaza: Ribbon Foundations
- River St @ Pleasant St: Water tie-in & Hydrant
- Blackstone St: Test Pits
Notice: River Street River Street Infrastructure and Streetscape Project - upcoming construction impacts to Magazine, Franklin, and Green Streets
Beginning approximately Wednesday, February 28, our contractor P. Gioioso & Sons (PGS) will be performing water main work requiring partial closures of portions of Magazine, Green and Franklin Streets. Expected impacts are as follows. Please note that all dates are approximate, and are subject to change due to weather conditions, or other conditions affecting the progress of the work.
Note that all closures and restrictions described below will be in effect Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. At other times all streets should be open to normal traffic without restrictions.
FEBRUARY 28 – MARCH 15 (APPROXIMATE)
- PGS will have a work zone at the Magazine/Green Street intersection.
- Green Street will be blocked to vehicular traffic at Magazine Street.
- Green Street will operate as 2-way between Magazine and Pearl, under police control, to allow for local traffic and access to/from the Green Street Garage.
- MBTA buses #47, #70, #83 and #91 will be detoured. Detailed signs will be posted in advance at impacted bus stops.
- Pedestrians will be able to use Green Street, and access will be provided around the work site.
- Magazine Street will be closed to vehicles between Franklin and Green Streets. Pedestrian traffic will be maintained, and access will be provided around the work zone.
- Vehicular detour routes will be posted for all of the above impacts.
MARCH 1 – MARCH 5 (APPROXIMATE)
- In addition to the above, PGS will have a work zone at the Magazine/Franklin Street intersection.
- Franklin Street will be closed to vehicular traffic between River Street and Magazine Street. Pedestrian access will be maintained.
- Franklin Street will be open as usual as a one-way street between Magazine and Pearl; but vehicles can only access this block by making a right-turn off of Magazine.
- Vehicular detour routes will be posted for all of the above impacts.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT THIS WORK?
- Work hours will be Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 4 PM.
- There will be noise from the operations, as the use of heavy equipment is involved.
- “No Parking” signs will be posted 48-hours in advance. Please be sure to check dates and times.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
If you have any questions about this upcoming work, or if you need assistance, including if you have any special needs or disabilities that require special accommodations, please contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov.
For after-work hours emergencies, call the Department of Public Works hotline at 617-349-4800.
March 2024:
Week of March 4:
- River St: Green to Kinnaird St Water service work
- Side Streets Drainage work (Fairmont Ave, Fairmont St, Rockwell St, Laurel St and Kelly Road)
- Green St: Test pits
- Magazine St: Green to Franklin St Water Main work
Week of March 11:
- River St: Green to Kinnaird St Water service and Drainage work
- Mass Ave to Green St, Green St water connection work
- Green to Kinnaird St water main work
- Side Streets Drainage work (Fairmont Ave, Fairmont St, Rockwell St, Laurel St and Kelly Road)
- Green St: Test pits
- Magazine St: Green to Franklin St Water Main work
Week of March 18:
- River St: Green to Kinnaird St Drainage work and Water Main work
- Mass Ave to Green St Water Main work
- @ Blackstone St: test pits
- Side Streets: Drainage work (Fairmont Ave, Fairmont St, Rockwell St, Laurel St and Kelly Road)
- Western Ave flowfill brick culverts
- Blackstone St: Test pits
Week of March 25:
- River St: Green to Kinnaird St water work
- Green to Kinnaird water main tie in
- @ Western Ave flowfill brick culverts
- Blackstone St: Test Pits
- Magazine St: Green to Franklin St water main work
February 2024:
Week of Jan 29:
- River St: Water services and Hydrant Work Green to Kinnaird St
- Franklin St drainage work
- Mass Ave to Green St: Water main installation
- Mass Ave to Green St: Median island removal
- Green to Kinnaird St: Water Main Work
- Magazine St: Water Service work from Green to Franklin
Week of Feb 5:
- Blackstone St: Test pits
- River St: Test pits in various locations for pedestrian signals
- Green to Kinnaird: drainage work
- Mass Ave to Green St: Water main work
- Green to Mass Ave: Median Island Removal
- Magazine St: Green to Franklin St water main work
Week of February 12:
- Blackstone St: Test Pits
- Magazine St: Green to Franklin St Water Main work
- Green to Franklin St: water main installation
- River St: Mass Ave to Green Water service connection work
Week of February 19:
No work on February 19th
- River St: Green to Kinnaird St water services
- Mass Ave to Green St water service connections work
- Magazine St: Green to Franklin St Water work
Week of February 26:
- River St: Green to Kinnaird St water services
- Mass Ave to Green St Water Work
- Green to Kinnaird St water work
- Magazine St: Water Main Work
** Work is weather dependent. Schedule subject to change based on field conditions.
January 2024:
No work January 1st to January 14th
Week of January 15th:
- Magazine St: Test Pits from Green St to Franklin St
- River St: @ Franklin St Drainage Work
Week of January 22:
- River St: Hydrant work Green St to Kinnaird
- Mass Ave to Green St: Water Main Installation
Week of January 29:
- River St: Water services and Hydrant Work Green to Kinnaird St
- Franklin St drainage work
- Mass Ave to Green St: Water main installation
- Mass Ave to Green St: Median island removal
- Magazine St: Water Service work from Green to Franklin
*** Work is weather dependent. Schedule subject to change based on field conditions.
December 2023:
December 2023 Carl Barron Plaza Newsletter available to view here.
Week of December 4th:
- Blackstone St: Test Pits
- Rockwell St: Test pits.
- River Street: Water main installation Green St to Kinnaird St
- Drainage work from Green St to Kinnaird St
Week of December 11th:
- Side Streets: Lead water service replacements
- River St: Water services from Green to Kinnaird St
- Drainage Installation from Green to Kinnaird St
- Franklin St @ River St: Drainage Installation at intersection
- Mass Ave Service Tie-In/Shutdown
- Pleasant St: @ Laurel St: Drainage work
Week of December 18th:
*No work on December 22nd
- River St: Water services from Green St to Kinnaird St
- Kelly @ River St: Drainage work
- Carol Baron Plaza: Demolition & Test pits
Week of December 25:
No work from December 25th - December 31
*** Work is weather dependent. Schedule subject to change based on field conditions.
November 2023:
Week of October 30:
- Test pits/borings for traffic signal foundations - Five locations along River St between Memorial Drive and Mass Ave
- Green St & Magazine St: Test pits
- River St: Water installation from Green St to Kinnaird St
Week of November 6:
No work on Tuesday November 7th & Friday November 10th
- Green St & Magazine St: Test pits
- River St: Water main installation from Green St to Kinnaird St
- Test pits/borings for traffic signal foundations - Five locations along River St between Memorial Drive and Mass Ave
Week of November 13:
- Test pits/borings for traffic signal foundations - Five locations along River St between Memorial Drive and Mass Ave
- Green St & Magazine St: Test pits
- River St: Test pits from Green St to Mass Ave
- Water main installation from Green St to Kinnaird St
Week of November 20th:
No work on Thursday November 23rd & November 24th
- Green St and Magazine St: Test pits
- River St: Water Main installation from Green St to Kinnaird St
Week of November 27th:
- Blackstone St: Test Pits
- Green St and Magazine St: Test Pits
- River St: Median Island Removal from Green St to Mass Ave
- Water Main installation Green St to Kinnaird St
*** Work is weather dependent. Schedule subject to change based on field conditions.
October 2023:
Week of October 2:
- Test pits/borings for traffic signal foundations - Five locations along River St between Memorial Drive and Mass Ave
- Blackstone St: Test Pits
- River St: Drain Installations from Cottage to Green St
- Water main installations from Pleasant St to Green
Week of October 9:
*No work on Monday October 9th
- Blackstone St: Test pits
- River St: Water main installation from Pleasant St to Green St
Week of October 16:
- Test pits/borings for traffic signal foundations - Five locations along River St between Memorial Drive and Mass Ave
- Blackstone St: Test pits
- River St: Drain Installation from Cottage to Green St
- Water Main Installation from Green St to Kinnaird St
Week of October 23:
- Blackstone St: Test pits
- River St: Water Main installation from Green St to Kinnaird St
***Work is weather dependent. Schedule subject to change based on field conditions.
September 2023:
Week of September 4:
*No work on Monday September 4
- River St: Test Pits from Green St. to Mass Ave.
- Drain Installation from Cottage St. to Green St.
Week of September 11:
- River St: Test pits from Green to Mass Ave
- Test Pits at River and Putnam Ave intersection
- Drain installation between Cottage to Green St
- Test pits/borings for traffic signal foundations - Five locations along River St between Memorial Drive and Mass Ave
Week of September 18:
- Test pits/borings for traffic signal foundations - Five locations along River St between Memorial Drive and Mass Ave
- Blackstone St: Test pits
- River St: Drain Installations from Cottage to Green St
- Pleasant to Green St water main installation
- Tie in/Shutdown Western Ave at River St intersection
Week of September 25:
- Test pits/borings for traffic signal foundations - Five locations along River St between Memorial Drive and Mass Ave
- River St: Drain installation from Cottage to Green
- Pleasant to Green water main installation
- Service Tie-In on River St @ Western Ave
***Work is weather dependent. Schedule subject to change based on field conditions.
August 2023:
Week of August 7th
- River St: Test pits from Green St. to Mass Ave.
- Drain installation from Cottage St. to Green St.
Week of August 14th
- River St: Test pits from Green St. to Mass Ave.
- Drain installation from Cottage St. to Green St.
Week of August 21:
- River St: Test pits between Green St. and Mass Ave.
- Drain Installation between Cottage St. and Green St.
- River St: Test pits between Green St. and Mass Ave.
- Test pits at Memorial Drive
- Drain installation between Cottage St. and Green St.
***Work is weather dependent. Schedule subject to change based on field conditions.
July 2023:
Week of July 10
- River St.: Test pit at Rockwell St.
- Drain installation from Kinnaird St. to Cottage St. and Cottage St. to Green St.
Week of July 17
- River St.: Test pits at Blackstone St.
- Drain installation from Cottage St. to Green St.
- Kelly Rd.: Water service connections
Week of July 24
- River St.: Test pits from Green St. to Mass Ave.
- Drain installation from Cottage St. to Green St.
- Kelly Rd.: Water service connection/shutdown at Magazine St.
Week of July 31
*****Work is weather dependent. Schedule subject to change based on field conditions.
June 2023:
Week of June 5th
- Test pits on River St (Putnam to Blackstone, and Blackstone to Memorial)
- Water main installation on Kelly Road
- Drain installation on River Street (Kinnaird to Cottage)
- Sewer and drain lining on Laurel St and Kelly Rd
Week of June 12
- River St: Test pits between Putnam Ave and Rockwell St
- Kelly Rd: Water services between Pleasant St and Magazine St
Week of June 19
- River St: Sewer work between William St and Auburn St
Water work at Pleasant St
- Kelly Rd: Water services between Pleasant St and Magazine St
Week of June 26
- River St: Test pits between Green St and Mass Ave
Drainage installation between Cottage St and Green St
- Fairmont St: catch basin lateral pipe lining
- Kelly Rd: catch basin lateral pipe lining
- Rockwell St: catch basin lateral pipe lining
*****Work is weather dependent. Schedule subject to change based on field conditions.
Notice: River Street Infrastructure and Streetscape Project - Construction Update: May 4, 2023
We would like to provide this update on what construction work is expected over the next several weeks for the River Street project, including associated neighborhood streets.
Our Contractor P. Gioioso & Sons (PGS) expects to have multiple crews working as follows. Please note that dates are approximate, and are subject to change due to weather conditions, or unforeseen underground conditions which could impact work progress.
RIVER STREET
- Excavation of exploratory test pits will continue on River Street between Memorial Drive and Putnam Avenue over the next two weeks
- Towards mid-May, the test pit locations will shift to the segment between Putnam Avenue and Rockwell Street.
FAIRMONT STREET
- Crews will continue to switch over individual building water services to the new water main this week.
ROCKWELL STREET (REVISED)
- There will be several partial-day water main shutdowns planned for the week of May 8 and May 15, in order to make a connection at the Pleasant Street end and to install new valves and hydrants. Not all properties on Rockwell Street will be impacted by each shutdown. Properties which will be impacted will receive more specific notices three days in advance of the planned shutdown
LAUREL STREET (REVISED)
- There is a partial-day water main shutdown planned for the week of May 8, in order to make a connection at the Pleasant Street end. Properties which will be impacted will receive more specific notices three days in advance of the planned shutdown.
KELLY ROAD
- There is a partial-day water main shutdown planned for the week of May 1, in order to make a connection at the Pleasant Street end. This shutdown will only impact the block between Pleasant and Magazine. Properties which will be impacted will receive more specific notices three days in advance of the planned shutdown.
- During the week of May 8, installation of new water main between Pleasant and Magazine Streets will begin.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THIS WORK?
- Work hours will be Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 4 PM.
- There will be noise from the operations, as the use of heavy equipment is involved.
- “No Parking” signs will be posted 48-hours in advance. Please be sure to check dates and times.
- Vehicle traffic and accessible pedestrian access will be maintained at all times. However, due to the narrowness of some of the streets, vehicle access may be restricted to one end of a street, or may need to be "wrong-way" at certain times. Drivers should pay careful attention to posted signs and detours.
- Emergency vehicles and city services such as trash collection will have access at all times.
HOW CAN I STAY INFORMED ABOUT THE PROJECT?
Please visit Cambridgema.gov/RiverStreet. Notices such as this one will be posted at that site, and you will also be able to sign-up to have notices and other updates automatically emailed to you.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
If you have any questions about this upcoming work, or if you need assistance, including if you have any special needs or disabilities that require special accommodations, please contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov.
For after-work hours emergencies, call the Department of Public Works hotline at 617-349-4800.
Notice: River Street Infrastructure and Streetscape Project - Construction Update: May 1, 2023
We would like to provide this update on what construction work is expected over the next several weeks for the River Street project, including associated neighborhood streets.
Our Contractor P. Gioioso & Sons (PGS) expects to have multiple crews working as follows. Please note that dates are approximate, and are subject to change due to weather conditions, or unforeseen underground conditions which could impact work progress.
RIVER STREET
- Excavation of exploratory test pits will continue on River Street between Memorial Drive and Putnam Avenue over the next two weeks.
- Towards mid-May, the test pit locations will shift to the segment between Putnam Avenue and Rockwell Street.
FAIRMONT STREET
- Crews will continue to switch over individual building water services to the new water main this week.
ROCKWELL STREET
- There is a partial-day water main shutdown tentatively planned for the week of May 8, in order to make a connection at the Pleasant Street end. Properties which will be impacted will receive more specific notices three days in advance of the planned shutdown.
LAUREL STREET
- Crews will install a drainage manhole and two drainage inlets (catch basins), at the River Street end of the street. The work should take 2-3 days, and will be performed at the end of this week, and/or the beginning of next week.
KELLY ROAD
- There is a partial-day water main shutdown planned for the week of May 1, in order to make a connection at the Pleasant Street end. This shutdown will only impact the block between Pleasant and Magazine. Properties which will be impacted will receive more specific notices three days in advance of the planned shutdown.
- During the week of May 8, installation of new water main between Pleasant and Magazine Streets will begin.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THIS WORK?
- Work hours will be Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 4 PM.
- There will be noise from the operations, as the use of heavy equipment is involved.
- “No Parking” signs will be posted 48-hours in advance. Please be sure to check dates and times.
- Vehicle traffic and accessible pedestrian access will be maintained at all times. However, due to the narrowness of some of the streets, vehicle access may be restricted to one end of a street or may need to be "wrong-way" at certain times. Drivers should pay careful attention to posted signs and detours.
- Emergency vehicles and city services such as trash collection will have access at all times.
HOW CAN I STAY INFORMED ABOUT THE PROJECT?
Please visit: https://www.cambridgema.gov/Departments/publicworks/cityprojects/2022/riverstreetreconstructionproject
Notices such as this one will be posted at that site, and you will also be able to sign-up to have notices and other updates automatically emailed to you.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
If you have any questions about this upcoming work, or if you need assistance, including if you have any special needs or disabilities that require special accommodations, please contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov.
For after-work hours emergencies, call the Department of Public Works hotline at 617-349-4800.
Notice: River Street Infrastructure and Streetscape Project - Construction Update:
We would like to provide this update on what construction work is expected over the next several weeks for the River Street project, including associated neighborhood streets.
Our Contractor P. Gioioso & Sons (PGS) expects to have two crews working as follows. Please note that dates are approximate, and are subject to change due to weather conditions, or unforeseen underground conditions which could impact work progress. Note that there will be no work on the President's Day holiday of February 20.
RIVER STREET
• Excavation of exploratory test pits will continue on River Street between Jay Street and Franklin Street over the next two weeks.
• In early March, the test pit crew is expected to shift to River Street between Laurel Street and Jay Street, and then to upper River Street between Franklin Street and Mass. Ave.
ROCKWELL STREET
• Drainage installation on Rockwell Street began the week of February 13 and should conclude during the week of February 20.
• Work includes two new mid-block catch basins associated with proposed tree bump-outs; and two new catch basins at the Pleasant Street end associated with the proposed raised crosswalk at that location.
LAUREL STREET
• Drainage installation on Laurel Street is expected to begin the week of February 20, and is expected to take 3-5 working days to complete.
• Work includes two new catch basins at each end of the street, associated with the proposed raised crosswalks at those locations.
KELLY ROAD
• Drainage installation on Kelly Road (Pleasant to Magazine) is expected to begin the week of February 27, and is expected to take 3-5 working days to complete.
• Work includes a new mid-block catch basin and drain manhole associated with an accessible sidewalk bump-out.
FAIRMONT STREET
• Drainage installation on Fairmont Street is expected to resume the week of February 27, and is expected to take 3-4 working days to complete.
FAIRMONT AVENUE
• Water main installation on Fairmont Ave is expected to begin the week of March 6.
• Further updates will be provided on this work.
What should I expect during this work?
• Work hours will be Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 4 PM.
• There will be noise from the operations, as the use of heavy equipment is involved.
• “No Parking” signs will be posted 48-hours in advance. Please be sure to check dates and times.
• Vehicle traffic and accessible pedestrian access will be maintained at all times. However, due to the narrowness of some of the streets, vehicle access may be restricted to one end of a street, or may need to be "wrong-way" at certain times. Drivers should pay careful attention to posted signs and detours.
• Emergency vehicles and city services such as trash collection will have access at all times.
How can I stay informed about this Project?
Please visit: www.cambridgema.gov/Riverstreet
Notices such as this one will be posted at that site, and you will also be able to sign-up to have notices and other updates automatically emailed to you.
For more information:
If you have any questions about this upcoming work, or if you need assistance, including if you have any special needs or disabilities that require special accommodations, please contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov.
For after-work hours emergencies, call the Department of Public Works hotline at 617-349-4800.
Notice: Fairmont Ave Virtual Neighborhood Meeting
Dear Fairmont Avenue Neighbor:
We invite you to a virtual neighborhood meeting to see and hear updates on the redesign and reconstruction of Fairmont Avenue.
The meeting can be accessed through this link:
• https://cambridgema.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYpc-GvqTkvHtOwHDt8Hcb2ImeesJYflNEK
• You can also email kkelleher@cambridgema.gov and we will email you the link
• Dial in: 929 436 2866
• Meeting ID: 824 4877 2547
Fairmont Avenue is being reconstructed as part of the River Street project. The City held community meetings in November 2020, and October 2021, at which we provided project background, and introduced two different street design concepts. Each concept showed what would be required to meet current pedestrian accessibility standards, which are not met today due to Fairmont Avenue's narrow sidewalks, large trees, utility poles and other obstructions.
At the second community meeting, and in other discussions with neighbors, there was enthusiasm for the innovative "Shared Street" concept, which would result in a slow-speed neighborhood street, where pedestrians have clear priority over vehicular traffic. This concept also provides more opportunities for trees and landscaping, and less impact on parking, as compared to a more "Conventional" design option.
We are now excited to share the final design concept with you, and get your input on some final details. Utility construction has begun on your street and will continue through the Spring. We expect that surface street construction would begin in late Summer or early Fall 2023, pause over the winter, and finish in the Spring of 2024.
Below you will see a drawing showing key features of the proposed Fairmont Ave shared street design. We will go through this plan in more detail at the meeting.
Also, below, you will see a photo-rendering of a similar project which is proposed elsewhere in the City. While this rendering does not depict Fairmont Avenue itself, it is helpful in illustrating how a shared street of similar scale looks, feels, and functions.
For More Information
We look forward to seeing you on February 13. For more information about this meeting or the project itself, please contact Kristen Kelleher, Community Relations Manager, at kkelleher@cambridgema.gov / 617.349.4825.
Notice: River Street Reconstruction Project Construction Open House Thursday, December 8th at 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, December 8, 2022
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Amigos School – Gymnasium
15 Upton Street
Accessible entrance off Pleasant Place
Review the final design for the project, learn about the construction schedule, and meet the project staff.
Refreshments will be provided!
Come Learn More!
For more information about the project, visit www.cambridgema.gov/RiverStreet
Questions or comments? Contact Kristen Kelleher, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4825 or kkelleher@cambridgema.gov.
The project includes River Street, Carl Barron Plaza, Blackstone Street, Fairmont Ave, Fairmont St, Rockwell St, Laurel St, Kelly Rd and portions of Magazine St and Green St.
The City of Cambridge does not discriminate on the basis of disability. The City will provide auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative format and responsible modifications in policies and procedures to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request given 48-hour notice.
Where can I learn about the history, goals, and design of the project? What is happening with the "old" project website?
The community engagement, planning, and design of the project began in January 2019 with the first meeting of the Project Working Group. All of the Working Group and Community Meeting presentations, design concepts, technical studies, and other information developed over the 3+ year planning and design phase may be found at:
https://www.cambridgema.gov/CDD/Projects/Transportation/riverstreetreconstruction
That design phase website will remain "live" for the duration of the construction phase but will no longer be updated. All "new" information moving forward will be found at this Construction website.
Are there shortcuts directly to the final design concepts and detailed engineering plans?
Yes - please see the following:
• Final concept for River Street Corridor:
• Final concept for Carl Barron Plaza:
• Final concept for Tubman Square (River/Pleasant/Kinnaird triangle):
• Detailed final engineering plans and specifications*:
*Note: The detailed final design plans may vary slightly from the earlier concepts
What is the project schedule? When will construction occur in front of my house/business/other place I’m interested in?
The River Street project is a complex undertaking, involving reconstruction of both subsurface utilities and surface infrastructure. All of this work must be performed in short segments, in order to keep the street operational and provide access to abutters at all times. The project will begin in November 2022 with excavation of test pits throughout the project area to confirm utility locations. The project is scheduled to conclude in the Fall of 2025 with final paving and landscaping.
Our Contractor, P. Gioioso & Sons, is working on a detailed schedule and work plan for how the project will unfold over its 3-year duration. Once the City reviews and approves this Work Plan, we will communicate information out to the public in several ways:
- Public Meeting: We anticipate having a public meeting towards the end of 2022 to re-familiarize the community with the design; introduce key City and Contractor staff; and give a general overview of the expected sequence and schedule.
- Project Updates: From time to time DPW will produce Project Updates, which will be posted on this website, and emailed to those on the project contact list. We will also provide hard-copies to local businesses and residents as appropriate or requested. The Project Updates will summarize recent progress and preview construction activities which are projected over the next several months. They may also include items of general interest related to the Project.
- Construction Notices are our most detailed form of communication. The Notices are used to alert the community and/or specific abutters of imminent construction activities, typically a week or two ahead. The Notices contain specific information on impacts to roadways, bike lanes, crosswalks, sidewalks, and parking. Notices will be posted on this website, emailed to the project contact list, and are usually hand-delivered to the abutters who are directly impacted by upcoming work. Notices may also be posted at prominent locations in the neighborhood.
Will there be work on my private property? How can I coordinate my own planned property work with the work of this project?
Abutting property owners will be contacted individually if the work of this project requires entry onto private property. Typical reasons for this may include the following:
- You have a lead or other non-copper water service to your building. If this is the case, the City, at no cost to you, will replace the service between your property and the City water main in the street.
- Your building's sewer or drain pipe is connected to the "wrong" pipe in the street. This is not uncommon in an old City such as Cambridge. We can typically correct this condition without entering onto private property, but in some cases, work within the property may be required.
- We need to slightly re-grade your walkway or driveway to "tie-in" to the reconstructed City sidewalk; or we needed to disturb your walk/landscaping/retaining wall in order to do our work. This corrective work will be performed at no cost to you, and we are committed to restoring all private property to its pre-existing condition, if not better.
In some cases, you may be planning a project of your own which involves replacing public or private utility services which connect your property to the main pipes or conduits in the street or sidewalk. If so, you should contact us with the details, so that we can ensure the work is properly coordinated. It's likely you will be able to avoid, or reduce, the fees and/or restoration requirements which the City typically charges to repair streets and sidewalks which are disturbed by private construction.
Will there be any more community meetings?
As noted above, we are planning on an initial construction meeting this fall - so please watch this space for more details, or better yet, sign up for Project emails (see below). We may also hold additional general or localized abutter meetings from time to time. In addition, we expect to hold a series of informal "coffee talks" at regular intervals throughout the project duration. These are drop-in sessions where project staff are available for several hours to answer questions and hear concerns from neighbors, businesses, and others. We will try to vary the time-of-day and locations of these sessions, to make them convenient for as many people as possible.
How will local business be supported?
The City recognizes that major construction is disruptive to businesses in a number of ways, and we are committed to supporting existing businesses along the project corridor throughout the construction phase. DPW, as well as the City's Community Development Department will maintain clear communication and strive to minimize impacts to businesses. We are in the midst of developing detailed mitigation strategies, and more information will be coming in the near future.
Examples of business support activities on past projects in the City, have included "Shop Local" Customer Loyalty Programs; temporary aesthetic improvements such as plantings and lighting; installation of wayfinding and promotional signage; and temporary changes to area parking and loading regulations.
How can I stay informed?
The best way to stay updated on the project is to sign up for Project emails. If you do so, you will receive all Meeting Notices, Project Updates, and Construction Notices.
If you have already signed up and have been receiving information throughout the design phase, you don't need to do anything and you will now receive construction information.
If you need to sign up, or are not sure if you have already, please click here.
The River Street project is a complex undertaking, involving reconstruction of both subsurface utilities and surface infrastructure. All of this work must be performed in short segments, in order to keep the street operational and provide access to abutters at all times. The project will begin in November 2022 with excavation of test pits throughout the project area to confirm utility locations. The project is scheduled to conclude in the Fall of 2025 with final paving and landscaping.
Our Contractor, P. Gioioso & Sons, is working on a detailed schedule and work plan for how the project will unfold over its 3-year duration.