3 Sudbury Intersections To Be Redone Under 'Complete Streets' Program

SUDBURY, MA — Sudbury opened bidding for "complete streets" projects that will upgrade three intersections to improve safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and other users.

The three projects will cost an estimated $500,000 combined, and will include updates like flashing beacons at crosswalks, new curbs and sidewalks and road resurfacing, according to the Sudbury Department of Public Works.

Funding for the three projects will come from the MassDOT complete streets program, which, in general, funds roadway upgrades to improve safety for all road users. The three Sudbury intersection projects were submitted to the state in 2021.

The largest of the three projects will upgrade the triangular intersection at Union Avenue, Concord Road and Old Lancaster Road near Our Lady of Fatima church. The description for the project submitted to the state describes the upgrades this way:

"Construct curb extensions on Old Lancaster Road and remove narrow center island and utility pole. Install four new pedestrian curb ramps, provide 1,000± linear feet of new granite curb on Old Lancaster Road and Concord Road, relocate two catch basins with new bicycle-safe drain grates, rebuild 350± feet of existing planting strip in poor condition. Upgrade walkways/sidewalks to consistent 5-foot width in project area. Relocate the crosswalk across Old Lancaster Road so it does not extend into Concord Road as in current condition.

"Install new [flashing beacon] for crosswalk across Concord Road. Narrow Concord Road between Old Lancaster Road and Union Avenue by extending the curb line on Concord Road and tightening the intersection with Union Avenue. This will reduce vehicle speeds and eliminate a fixed object wall that is often struck by vehicles. Replace raised center island with flush island on Union Avenue and remove utility pole. Provide new traffic warning turn signs for southbound Concord Road traffic approaching Union Avenue. Trim vegetation to improve sight lines."

The second project at Hudson Road and Fairbank Road near the under-construction community center and pool will:

"Construct curb extensions on both corners of Fairbank Road. Relocate existing crosswalk closer to the intersections and provide two new pedestrian ramps. Relocate and expand raised center island and provide new pedestrian refuge which will reduce approach travel lane width for vehicles. Install new 5-foot wide bituminous walkway to connect with existing walkways. Provide bicycle-safe drain grates. These measures will reduce the pedestrian crossing distance, slow turning vehicles, and improve safety, connectivity and accessibility."

The third and smallest project at Old Lancaster and Peakham roads will add four pedestrian ramps at each crosswalk, plus flashing red LED lights on the intersection's four stop signs.

Sudbury will accept bids for each project through March 9.