The recent news that Massachusetts will receive a $335 million infrastructure grant for the Allston Multimodal Project is a massive victory not only for the project itself but also for the Greater Boston economy. Credit is due to our federal delegation for their successful efforts in securing this money through a competitive grant program. Gov. Maura Healey and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu also deserve equal praise for helping to show the Biden Administration that federal transportation dollars should be invested in Allston. Because of this grant, the project can now move forward and we should take a moment to celebrate.
The Allston I-90 Multimodal Project is one of the best infrastructure projects in New England, because it transforms a structurally deficient stretch of highway into a new area that works for drivers, residents of Allston and future workers in Boston. When the project is complete, drivers will enjoy a straighter, safer Massachusetts Turnpike thanks to the newly designed network of roads. There will be transit connections at the new West Station that serves the neighborhood and the travelers on the Framingham/Worcester commuter rail line. The project will also include high-quality pedestrian and bike lanes will improve access to the Charles River from Allston. Finally, as result of this new transportation network, 40 acres of new development can be supported properly in Beacon Park Yard.
Massachusetts was able to win this $335 million grant because of the close partnership between three key groups: state and city government officials, particularly the governor and the mayor, who produced a strong project application that aligned with federal timelines and goals; our federal delegation, led by Sens. Ed Markey and Elizabeth Warren and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, whose advocacy was instrumental in securing federal support; and then the local stakeholders, including business leaders, environmental advocates, and community leaders from Allston, whose vocal support bolstered the project’s credibility.
It is a rare occasion to win a $335 million grant, but it is appropriate for this project and this special moment. Because of the hard work over the past few years, this region now stands to benefit with safer transportation infrastructure, better access to transit, and the new economic development that will improve Greater Boston for decades to come.
— Tom Ryan, senior advisor, A Better City
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