Final Environmental Impact Report - Whittier Bridge/I-95 ...

EEA#I4427 DEIR Certificate December 30, 2011
The FEIR should identify any changes proposed to the project since the filing of the
DEIR. It should include an update on State and local permitting. The Phasing of the project
should be described in more detail, in particular, identification of which roadway improvements
are associated with each phase and how permitting and mitigation will be managed within the
context of phasing.
Transportation
As required by the Scope on the ENF, the FEIR should identify current roadway
improvement projects in Newburyport, Amesbury, and Salisbury that could impact traffic flows
during construction ofthe proposed improvements. The FEIR should discuss MassDOT's
coordination efforts with the municipalities as they address regional and local traffic concerns
within this area and should provide the most current information on the proposed construction
dates for any roadway improvements in the area. The FEIR should address the comments from
the City of Newburyport regarding impacts to local traffic at the intersection of Spofford Street,
Moseley Avenue, and Merrimack Street.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities
I commend MassDOT for the inclusion of the shared-use path as an integral component
of the proposed project. It is an outstanding and valuable addition to the alternative
transportation network in the Merrimack Valley. While comments regarding the inclusion of the
shared-use path are generally supportive, I note that many commenters have indicated that the
shared-use path could be further improved by connections to Main StreetJEvans Place in
Amesbury and connections between the existing Ghost Trail in Salisbury and the Powwow
Riverwalk Trail in Amesbury. MassDOT should ensure that the design of the shared-use path
does not preclude future pedestrianlbicycle connections and access by the municipalities.
The FEIR should describe how the project can further comply with the goals of the
USDOT Policy Statement on Bicycle and Pedestrian Accommodation Regulations and
Recommendations (March 15,2010) and MassDOT's GreenDOTInitiatives Policy and explore
opportunities to work with stakeholders and commenters to investigate additional bicycle path
and pedestrian connections and to identify additional commitments to improved connections as
required by the Scope on the ENF.
The FEIR should address the City of Newburyport's comments regarding an East-West
Trail connection along the Merrimack River and consider the City's request for the allowance of
a public Access Permit once construction of the project is complete.
Wetlands
I note the detailed comments from MassDEP regarding wetlands impacts and I expect
these to be fully addressed in the FEIR. Many of the comments direct MassDOT to provide
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