Boston, MA

Boston bike lanes plan draws opposition: The proposed routes would be ‘deadly’

Published

2 years ago

June 24, 2023

Boston bike lanes plan draws opposition: The proposed routes would be ‘deadly’

The City of Boston is moving forward with plans to add bike lanes and reconfigure streets in two neighborhoods, despite heavy opposition from residents.

Two heated community meetings and a flurry of emails shared with the Herald point to safety concerns among residents living in both Back Bay and West Roxbury, where plans to install bike lanes on Berkeley, Beacon and Boylston streets, and Centre Street, respectively, were presented in the past several weeks.

“We understand and support the concept of a system of bike paths connecting all parts of the city,” wrote Elliott Laffer, chair of the Neighborhood Association of the Back Bay, in one such email. “However, we believe it would be irresponsible to implement such a plan in an area where an unsuspecting bike rider or pedestrian would be placed in peril.

“The proposed routes on Berkeley and Beacon streets would be deadly. We ask reconsideration of this deeply flawed plan.”

Another resident, Judy Settana, wrote that she and her husband were opposed to the mayor’s plan to redesign Centre Street in West Roxbury, because they felt it would be “very dangerous for us older folks.”

She said they were nervous about the time it could take for a fire truck or ambulance to reach them in an emergency situation.

City Councilor Erin Murphy said there are “definitely neighborhoods that are pushing back more” than the Wu administration expected. Another councilor, Michael Flaherty, said the loudest opposition is coming from “more active and civically engaged folks, and that gets politically dicey if you don’t listen.”

Flaherty said the opposition is fierce enough to halt or change the projects. A spokesperson for the mayor’s office said this week, however, that plans “have not been paused” and are still being managed by the Streets Department, which is overseen by Chief of Streets Jascha Franklin-Hodge.

The lack of bend from the city has been noted by opponents to the project, particularly those who have spoken at the prior community meetings and have left feeling like their concerns fell on deaf ears.

Michael Weingarten, who has concerns with a city proposal to create a one-way separated bike lane on Berkeley and a two-way lane on A/B Beacon, sent a 25-page memo to Franklin-Hodge, the mayor’s office and other city officials, but noted in the email that his suggestions probably won’t be considered.

“It’s important to avoid making plans without first seeking productive discourse where community input is valued,” Weingarten wrote. “I have been informed that the (Boston Transportation Department) has already decided to implement the plan by September and there is no room for alterations, but I hope that my concerns will be seriously considered.”

Flaherty said this approach from the city has “led to residents feeling ignored by the Transportation Department. They feel like it’s being done to them, not with and for them.”

State Rep. Jay Livingstone, who represents Back Bay, said he is working with Mayor Michelle Wu to get his own concerns addressed, which pertain to safety and the disruption of putting a bike lane on Berkeley Street.

“It’s a continuing discussion that we’re still having,” Livingstone told the Herald. “I think the mayor wants a safe set of bike lanes that make sense for Boston, and is considering all public comments in a way that I would expect.”

Stacy Thompson, executive director of LivableStreets, said opposition is to be expected.

“There’s almost no bus or bike project that happens in the metro Boston region that there isn’t some group that believes it will somehow cause more congestion or make it harder for them to get around,” Thompson said. “It’s part of a bigger backlash that we see in Boston, and frankly, cities around the country.”

Thompson said her group favors both projects. She described the West Roxbury plan, which pre-dates the Wu administration and goes back several years, as well-vetted, and the two plans for the Back Bay as “no-brainers.”

According to a city description, the Wu administration is working to make Centre Street in West Roxbury safer for all by redesigning the street to calm traffic between LaGrange Street and West Roxbury Parkway.

The area, located in the heart of the West Roxbury Main Streets district, has a history of speeding and crashes that have resulted in death and injury, the city website states.

Murphy opposes the plan, describing it in a statement as a so-called “road diet” that would “impinge emergency rescue vehicle access, choke residential neighborhoods with spillover traffic, squeeze four lanes down to two with a middle lane for turns at some intersections, harm local businesses by restricting customer access, and add bike lanes.”

Thompson and the mayor’s office disagree.

“I think they’re trying to make the bike lanes a boogeyman when the real central purpose of that plan is about making it safer to cross the streets,” Thompson said.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the mayor’s office said, “The Centre Street project is focused on safety, especially for pedestrians,” and added that the city believes the safety data makes clear that the street design must change.

“The current four-lane road configuration has resulted in a high number of injury crashes, and creates conditions where thousands of motorists per day drive at unsafe speeds through a busy neighborhood business district,” the spokesperson said.

“Over the past four years, the city has conducted extensive engineering analysis to develop a design that provides major safety benefits while accommodating traffic volumes and preserving parking.”

The city is also adding separated bike lanes on Berkeley Street and Beacon Street to connect the South End to the Back Bay, and to bring people from both neighborhoods to the Esplanade.

A third plan moving forward is to add a one-way separated bike lane on Boylston Street from Massachusetts Avenue to Arlington Street, and a bus lane from Ring Road to Arlington Street, the city website states.

A Wu spokesperson noted that the changes on Berkeley and Beacon Street do not require the removal of any travel lanes and will not increase traffic or reduce road capacity.

“Berkeley, Beacon and Boylston streets are all busy streets, and research shows the best way to keep people on bikes safe is by creating dedicated, protected space for them to ride,” the spokesperson said. “The city has reached out to people who live, work, and travel along these streets and has worked to incorporate their feedback into the design.”

Stuart Cahill/Boston Herald

The bike lanes along Beacon Street and around Berkeley Street on Wednesday. (Stuart Cahill/Boston Herald)

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Boston, MA

State plans to overhaul the Arborway in Boston, remove rotary

Published

5 hours ago

January 16, 2025

Press Room

State plans to overhaul the Arborway in Boston, remove rotary

BOSTON — The Arborway is home to nature. The Arboretum along the road is no stranger to ponds and amphibians, so it’s fitting that crossing the street feels like a game of Frogger. The state has taken notice and has a proposal to overhaul the entire thoroughfare.

Neighbors hope for changes

“You are definitely taking your life in your own hands trying to cross this road. There are a lot of crashes right here because you have four lanes going into one,” said Ed Narenkivicius, a dog walker who’s lived here for 25 years. “The current model isn’t working, so hoping for anything with common sense.”

Out of the 13 intersections on the Arborway, only two are signaled, which means at 11 of them, pedestrians have to wait for the cars to stop to cross. With multiple lanes, people can be waiting a while or choose to risk it to run across.

“I don’t use a crosswalk that doesn’t have a signal, and the ones up here are just flashing yellow. I wait until cars stop,” said Narenkivicius.

“It is challenging at times. We have to dodge cars from time to time or wait,” said Heidi Blake, another neighbor out walking her dog. “As a driver, I have seen cars run into one another, and very dodgy entrances and exits.”

Blake is onto something. She’s lived here for 10 years, and studies back up her fears. Over the last five years, there have been more than 100 sideswipe crashes at both Murray and Kelley Circle.

Arborway changes — A proposal to remove a rotary on the Arborway in Jamaica Plain.

Mass. DCR

“You can see the sideswipe crashes are clustered and concentrated near the entrances and exits to the circle,” said Project Manager Teren Wong while showcasing data during a public meeting online.

Two traffic circles removed

In response, the state is working to overhaul the entire Arborway by doing away with both circles altogether. Bike and pedestrian lanes will be added, as well as reducing the number of pedestrian crossings. The ones that remain will be signaled. The proposal increases green space as well.

Many of the people we spoke with were in favor change, but skeptical of the current design. During the public meeting this week, one Pondside neighborhood resident worried the new design will make it difficult to access his street.

“You’ve got to think about this seriously, and you’ve got to resolve it because this is not going to stand,” the resident said.

The proposal is still being tweaked. They hope to have it finalized by 2026.

Mike Sullivan

Mike Sullivan is a multimedia journalist for WBZ-TV.

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Boston, MA

Explore The Luxurious Side Of Massachusetts At This Year’s Boston Wine And Food Festival

Published

13 hours ago

January 16, 2025

Press Room

The 2025 Boston Wine and Food Festival is led by Wine Director Nick Daddona and Executive Chef David … [+] Daniels.

Boston Wine and Food Festival

Equipped with a lengthy coastline and a fishing culture that dates back centuries, Massachusetts has earned widespread acclaim for its world-class seafood scene—but that’s not all that this historic state has to offer. In addition to being the birthplace of beloved baked goods like the Boston cream pie and chocolate chip cookie, the commonwealth also boasts one of the finest dining scenes in all of New England. During a visit to the capital city of Boston, tourists can discover all sorts of polished bars and prestigious restaurants within city limits, and for a truly lavish experience, there’s no beating the Boston Wine and Food Festival.

First launched in 1989, this esteemed affair is set to return for its 36th iteration this year, with no shortage of elevated drinking and dining experiences taking place within the city’s world-class Boston Harbor Hotel. As one of the longest food and drink-focused events in the nation, the Boston Wine and Food Festival spans from late January until the final week of March, with festivities officially kicking off on January 31st at Opening Night. Taking place in the Harbor Hotel’s opulent Wharf Room, this lively event invites guests to sample more than 100 different wines sourced from all across the globe, all while enjoying live music and bites crafted by Executive Chef David Daniels.

Massachusetts is home to more than fifty wineries.

Shem Hooda Creative

After Opening Night, festival participants can look forward to twenty wine-focused events taking place throughout February and March, many of which shine a spotlight on the natural bounty of both California and Western Europe. For a deep dive on the agricultural history of France’s Rhône Valley, the Châteauneuf-du-Pâpe Dinner is the perfect event, while concepts like The Tuscan Sun Dinner and Marchesi di Barolo Dinner are ideal for discovering the rich array of wines that hail from the Italian peninsula.

When it comes to specific varieties of wine, the festival offers curated master classes focusing on Nebbiolo, Champagne and rosé, but for those in search of a particularly romantic experience, it’s tough to beat Valentines on the French Riviera. Taking place on February 14th, this intimate affair invites participants to enjoy a private dinner under the golden glow of candlelight, with seven refined wines from the French Riviera served alongside flavorful Mediterranean fare.

The Boston Harbor Hotel (pictured here) is adorned with a 60-foot-tall archway.

getty

While the Boston Wine and Food Festival is particularly elegant all on its own, its host hotel is offering an opportunity for guests to elevate their experience with The Presidential Burgundy Experience. Taking place on March 21st, this grandiose event provides up to eight participants with an opportunity to bask in the beauty of the property’s Presidential Suite—a 4,800-square-foot space that comes complete with a private elevator, open-air terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows—and enjoy a sommelier-led Burgundy tasting experience and lavish, six-course dinner prepared by Chef David Daniels.

During the Presidential Burgundy Experience, guests can also take advantage of the full-service open bar available all throughout the meal, while the following morning brings the opportunity to enjoy an elegant brunch served in the comfort of the suite. And to sweeten the deal, a stay at the Boston Harbor Hotel also allows guests to pay a visit to Rowes Wharf Sea Grille—a top spot for lobster, oysters and clam chowder—without having to step outdoors and brave the winter weather.

The state of Massachusetts is home to just one American Viticultural Area: the Martha’s Vineyard … [+] AVA.

Shem Hooda Creative

While Massachusetts has long been renowned for its thriving seafood scene, the Boston Wine and Food Festival highlights far more than just the Bay State, with no shortage of acclaimed restaurateurs gathering to pay homage to the world’s most esteemed wineries. From Hollywood-inspired dinners to deep dives on the world of Pinot Noir, this lauded festival grants guests an opportunity to enjoy the elevated ambiance of the city at its very best—and with winter in full swing, the Boston Wine and Food Festival provides the perfect opportunity to escape the cold and immerse yourself in the flavors of Napa, Tuscany or the French Riviera for a truly unforgettable night.

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Boston, MA

Nine ways to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day around Boston – The Boston Globe

Published

21 hours ago

January 16, 2025

Press Room

Nine ways to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day around Boston – The Boston Globe

SMALL ACTS, BIG IMPACTS: A DAY OF SERVICE From Saturday to Monday, give back to the community with the Discovery Museum’s “Day of Service” in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day’s designation as a National Day of Service. Donate or collect supplies for the Welcome Basket drive, and make a warm welcome card in support of the Refugee and Immigrant Assistance Center. Donations for these care packages — including cleaning and laundry supplies, hygiene products, infant care items, and winter clothing — will go to immigrant or refugee families in need of essential daily items. Free admission. Jan. 18-20, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 177 Main St., Acton. discoveryacton.org

Fannie Lou Hamer, a leader of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, testifies before the credentials committee of the Democratic National Convention in Atlantic City, N.J., on Aug. 22, 1964, as her racially integrated group challenged the seating of the all-white Mississippi delegation. Uncredited/Associated Press

MLK DAY CONCERT — VOTING WITH PURPOSE AND WITHOUT FEAR On Sunday, the Association of Black Citizens of Lexington is hosting a concert in honor of MLK Jr. Day and in celebration of the lives of Martin Luther King Jr. and activist Fannie Lou Hamer. Both civil rights leaders were integral in the fight for equal voting rights and access to ballots for all voters. Enjoy songs of spirituality and freedom — performed by Brother Dennis and Friends — as an homage to the songs that motivated those at the Meredith March Against Fear in 1966 and many other civil rights activists of the 1960s. Tickets are $25. Jan. 19, 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Follen Church, 755 Mass. Ave., Lexington. eventbrite.com

EMBRACE HONORS MLK On Sunday, Embrace Boston hosts Embrace Honors MLK 2025, a formal evening of joy, music, and community. Leaders to be honored include former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker and first lady Lauren Baker, and former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and first lady Diane Patrick. Hosts include Melisa Valdez, in-arena host for the Boston Celtics, and Latoyia Edwards, Emmy-winning anchor from NBC 10 Boston. DJ Envy, DJ Papadon, and the Berklee All Star Jazz Band are among the entertainers booked. Tickets are $450. Jan. 19. 6:30 p.m.-midnight. Big Night Live, 110 Causeway St. embraceboston.org

Alison Saar "Weight" (detail), 2012, at the Peabody Essex Museum. — Alison Saar “Weight” (detail), 2012, at the Peabody Essex Museum. © 2019 Peabody Essex Museum, Salem, Massachusetts. Photography by Bob Packert.

PEABODY ESSEX MUSEUM DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. CELEBRATION The Peabody Essex Museum will honor the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday with a variety of art installations. View the works of Bethany Collins (”America: A Hymnal”), David Boxer (”The Black Books”), and Alison Saar’s (”Weight)”. Starting at 11 a.m., join fluid acrylics artist Rahim Gray to learn the way he incorporates social justice and music in his work and to make pour art of your own. Free admission. Jan. 20, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 161 Essex St., Salem. pem.org

Amanda Shea, spoken word and multidisciplinary artist, will perform at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum on Monday.
Erin Clark/Globe Staff

ISABELLA STEWART GARDNER MUSEUM — MLK JR. DAY OF SERVICE Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Monday to stroll its galleries, hear storytellers, and participate in activities. Featured exhibits include performance artist Dzidzor’s soundscape “Riot: A Sermon of Anger, Dreams, and Love,” Crystal Bi’s “Dream Portal” hands-on installation, and a performance by Amanda Shea and musician Wylsner Bastien of “Why We Still Dream” at Calderwood Hall. Free admission. Jan. 20, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, 25 Evans Way. gardnermuseum.org

CELEBRATE! WITH GEORGE RUSSELL JR. AND FRIENDS The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum hosts a Monday performance of some of Martin Luther King Jr.’s favorite songs by George Russell Jr. and Friends. The event is free to the public per the support of the Martin Richard Foundation and the Mass Cultural Council. Jan. 20, 10:30.-11:30 a.m. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Columbia Point. eventbrite.com

MFA BOSTON OPEN HOUSE, MLK DAY In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. and the communal and artistic spirit of the holiday, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston will offer free admission Monday to any visitors with a Massachusetts ZIP code. Within the museum, view ArtSpark’s “Radical Heroes” program and make your own window-hanging at the “Stained Glass: Doves” station. The museum offers several other performances and talks; see the website for the schedule. Jan. 20. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave. mfa.org

BOSTON CHILDREN’S CHORUS — ROAD TO FREEDOM This year’s Boston Children’s Chorus MLK Day program educates about Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, two civil rights leaders who are often perceived as ideologically unaligned, though the interconnectedness between the two is more complex. The “Road to Freedom” program at Symphony Hall on Monday is designed to educate the Boston community on the similarities between the two activists, and the vital role both hold in shaping social movements of the past and present. $15-$75. Jan. 20, 4 p.m. Symphony Hall, 301 Mass. Ave. bso.org

ANNUAL MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CELEBRATION Join the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestras and the Boston community for a celebratory program of memorable performances on Monday. The two-hour program, presented in conjunction with the Museum of African American History, will include spiritual and cultural performances, spoken word and readings, and guest speakers. Free admission. Jan. 20. Starts at 1 p.m. Strand Theatre, 543 Columbia Road. eventbrite.com