Mass Pike Lane Closures Cause Delays Near Newton-Weston Border
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Weekend construction reduces traffic to one lane in each direction, causing notable congestion.
By Amelia Thompson | BOSTON – 2025/05/31 20:05:32
Motorists are experiencing ample delays on the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) this weekend due to lane closures near the Interstate 95 interchange, close to the Newton-Weston boundary.The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is advising drivers to avoid the area if possible.
A section of the Mass Pike between Newton and Weston has been reduced to a single lane in both directions for the weekend to facilitate ongoing construction work.
Driver Sue McCalley commented, “This is going to be a real test.”
I-90/I-95 Interchange Redesign Project
The ongoing project aims to redesign the I-90/I-95 interchange. While the entire project is expected to take another two years, a crucial phase involving bridge demolition and reconstruction is underway, necessitating the current lane closures.
McCalley added, “We all have several alternate routes, so I can always go around, under and over, but it’s still going to take patience.”
“What we’re telling people frist and foremost, if you don’t need to come through this area, it’s not a great place to be taking a discretionary trip this weekend,”
State transportation officials anticipate significant congestion during this phase. MassDOT Highway Administrator Jonathan gulliver stated, “What we’re telling people first and foremost, if you don’t need to come through this area, it’s not a great place to be taking a discretionary trip this weekend.”
The construction also impacts the MBTA Commuter Rail line to Framingham and Worcester, which will be closed.Shuttle buses will be provided free of charge, but commuters should still expect longer travel times.
Approximately 100,000 vehicles typically use this section of the Mass Pike daily. Officials warn that backups could last up to three hours this weekend unless there is a significant decrease in traffic volume.
Stephen Wilhelm noted the long-term benefits, saying, “It’s going to be absolutely terrible, but it has to happen.”
All lanes are scheduled to reopen by 5 a.m. on Monday, in time for the morning commute. Another weekend of similar closures is planned to begin in three weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why are the lane closures necessary?
- The lane closures are required to facilitate bridge demolition and reconstruction as part of the I-90/I-95 interchange redesign project. This work is essential to improve the safety and efficiency of the interchange.
- How long will the lane closures last?
- The current lane closures will be in effect until 5 a.m.on Monday. Another weekend of similar closures is planned to begin in three weeks.
- What alternative routes can I take?
- MassDOT advises drivers to avoid the area if possible. Consider using alternative routes such as Route 30 or Route 20 to bypass the affected area.
- Will the MBTA Commuter Rail be affected?
- Yes, the MBTA Commuter Rail line to Framingham and worcester will be closed during the construction. Shuttle buses will be provided free of charge.
- How can I stay updated on the project’s progress?
- You can stay updated by following MassDOT’s official website and social media channels for the latest facts and traffic alerts.
