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

Whittier Bridge/I-95 Improvement Project FEIR
Chapter 3.0: Mitigation and Commitments
The visual impact of the fence will be mitigated with plantings (e.g., climbing vines) on the side
facing the condominium complex to soften the blank wall of the fence. An example of the potential
landscaping improvements is shown on Figures 3-1 through 3-3.
The network tied arch bridge, the bridge type most closely replicating the look of the existing Whittier
Bridge, will minimize the negligible visual impacts at the Merrimack River crossing.
3.3 OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION
The project will not result in adverse impacts to open space and recreation areas along the project
alignment. Temporary construction-period noise impacts could result at open space and recreation
areas. Potential construction-noise mitigation measures are described in section 3.15.4.
As part of mitigating the demolition of the National Register of Historic Places-eligible Whittier Bridge
and as specified in the Section 106 Memorandum of Agreement, the Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) and MassDOT have committed to preserving certain historic elements of the
existing bridge and incorporating these elements into interpretive features of the Shared-Use Path.
The intent of the preservation activities is to celebrate the life of John Greenleaf Whittier, the history
of the existing Whittier Bridge, and the natural environment of the Merrimack River. Decorative
elements from the bridge, including the builder‘s plaques and the carved granite Massachusetts
state seals located on both shorelines, would be incorporated into interpretive panels located at path
trailheads or at one or more of the three scenic overlooks to be located immediately south of, midspan,
and on the northern end of the new I-95 northbound bridge.
The Shared-Use Path along the I-95 ROW would create the first recreational path constructed on
interstate highway ROW in Massachusetts and represents MassDOT‘s commitment to embrace the
recommended actions outlined in the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Policy Statement
on Bicycle and Pedestrian Accommodation Regulations and Recommendations (March 15, 2010)
and MassDOT‘s GreenDOT Initiatives Policy. The three communities will be responsible for
maintenance activities along the Shared-Use Path, as discussed during the Whittier Working Group
meetings with representatives of the three communities.
3.4 TRAFFIC AND SAFETY
The project would result in greatly improved levels of service for the study area roadways, and would
alleviate existing safety problems.
The contractor will be required to submit a Traffic Maintenance Plan to MassDOT for review and
approval. This plan will be coordinated with engineering, planning, police, and fire departments, and
emergency medical services in Newburyport, Amesbury, and Salisbury.
Electronic variable message signs will be used to inform motorists of construction activity and
suggest detours when required. The signs will be sited to provide early notification to travelers so
that alternate routes could be sought.
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