Where to Expect Delays Due to Construction in Downtown Framingham

Eversource Energy (formerly NSTAR) will be installing new underground infrastructure in the downtown Framingham area beginning Sunday, April 26.

The first 10 weeks of construction will be in the immediate vicinity of the Memorial Building and then move south towards the intersection of Route 135. The hours of operation will be Sunday through Thursday from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Eversource’s project will increase electrical capacity and improve reliability within the Town of Framingham.

The electrical upgrades are considered high priority for maintaining sufficient electrical service within the Downtown area. The project is anticipated to be completed during the 2015 construction season.

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s reconstruction of Route 126 is also underway with contractors working Monday through Friday between the hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

When complete, this project will provide the Downtown area with significant upgrades including new sidewalks, roadway surface, drainage improvements, traffic signals, and amenities including new street lighting and trees, according to a press release.

This project is anticipated to be substantially complete by the end of 2016 construction season, according to MassDOT.

“When the Eversource Energy work is complete, the infrastructure will be in place to install new electrical equipment to increase the availability of electricity for downtown businesses and residents,” said JoAnne O’Leary, Eversource Energy community relations representative, in a written statement.

All are encouraged to continue their support of local businesses during construction.

New public parking areas have been designated for Downtown visitors during construction in the lot at the corner of Concord Street and Howard Street as well as in the public parking area off of Hollis Court, according to a press release from the Town of Framingham.

All are invited to attend the Framingham Public Works Field Office Open House on today, April 23 at 107 Concord Street from noon to 7 p.m., to learn more about these projects