ALLSTON MULTIMODAL (I-90) PROJECT
A once-in-a-generation opportunity to reconnect to the river.
The Issue
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is working on a major reconfiguration of Interstate 90 (i.e. I-90 or Mass Pike), Soldiers Field Road and the Framingham/Worcester railroad line along the Charles River waterfront in Allston – known as the Allston Multimodal (I-90) Project.
We are excited about the potential of this project to provide a new commuter rail stop, a wider, safer bike and pedestrian path, more parkland, and more housing in underutilized land. However, there are key areas for improvement.
Lane reduction – During construction, I-90 will be reduced from four lanes to three in each direction. Making that change permanent would free up space for parkland and river restoration.
Layover yard – The current plan includes unnecessary train storage in Allston, occupying valuable land for housing and green spaces.
Neighborhood streets – More can be done to ensure the new adjacent neighborhood is safe and walkable.
This roadway expansion would also undercut climate goals set by both the Commonwealth and the City of Boston, which call for reducing vehicle traffic to curb carbon emissions.
Please join us in calling on MassDOT to improve this project to advance the restoration of the Charles River and stay committed to our state's climate goals.
Which Do You Prefer?
MassDOT rendering
CRWA alternative #1
CRWA alternative #2
CRWA alternative #3
About The Project
The Allston Multimodal (I-90) Project entails:
Straightening the Mass Pike in Allston to free up land for development;
Building a new commuter rail station; and
Bringing the Allston viaduct down to at-grade (i.e. the same level).
CRWA has served on the Allston Multimodal Project Task Force since its inception in 2014. We have been consistent in our position since that time; we support the overall project goals and believe they can be achieved while protecting the Charles River.
In Summary
MassDOT’s current proposal to build into the Charles River in “The Throat” section of I-90 presents is deeply flawed:
Rather than improving public access to the river for Allston residents, it will bring extreme heat, exhaust fumes, polluted air, and noise to the neighborhood.
Navigating alongside 12 lanes of speeding cars and trucks will be a distressing experience for walkers and cyclists.
It will eliminate opportunities to restore a healthy riverbank.
There will be a reduction of river “real estate” for boaters, kayakers, paddlers and aquatic life.
Placing highways above the protection of rivers sets a dangerous and shortsighted precedent.
CRWA has been speaking out about the project for years, ensuring minimal environmental impact on the Charles River.
Recent I-90 Updates:
