SOUTHWICK – According to a press release published by the Southwick DPW, the Feeding Hills Rd. construction project will get underway the week of March 13.
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation is overseeing the project and paying for the estimated $3.97 million construction and Baltazar Construction out of Ludlow is the contractor.
Randy Brown Southwick DPW Director (WNG File Photo)
DPW Director Randy Brown said that they are playing a role in the project.
“We’re just involved to provide some local support and input to Mass DOT and the contractor,” said Brown.
The Feeding Hills Rd. project will include three different parts. Widening roads and putting in left-handed turning lanes is the first aspect. The roads that will have this work done are at Feeding Hills Rd. and Powder Mill Rd., Rebecca Lobo Drive, Hudson Drive, and North Longyard Rd.
Having the signals and left-handed turning lanes is important for those intersections that see a lot of traffic.
“Those intersections are difficult to navigate especially during rush hours,” said Brown. “It will certainly improve the traffic flow.”
Baltazar Construction will also make draining improvements along Feeding Hills Rd. from Powder Mill Rd. to Hudson Dr. There will also be another one installed in the North Longyard section.
The third and final addition to the project will feature new sidewalks and bike lanes along Feeding Hills Rd. from Powder Mill Rd. to Hudson Dr.
Brown says that this project has been talked about occurring for about seven years and he is glad that it will become a reality.
“It’s a long time coming,” said Brown. “I’m looking forward to getting it under way and getting it completed.”
The construction hours for Baltazar will most likely be Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., excluding holidays. According to Brown, construction will continue through November of 2017. During the construction time, the traffic on Feeding Hills Rd. may be reduced to just one travel lane.
Residents are asked to refer to the town websites as there will be periodic construction updates. You can also call the Southwick DPW at 413-569-6772.
