Downtown Broadway utility work to close Fourth Street for 4–6 weeks; MBTA stop temporarily moved

The commission reviewed a written update from Kate Fox, Commissioner of Public Works, about the Downtown Broadway utility project. A commission member read the update aloud: "This current work is to install new sewers in Broadway and reconnect all of the buildings to new sewers," the update said.

The notice says crews also are replacing some water mains and any lead water services identified for replacement. For the next four to six weeks, Broadway will remain open while Fourth Street is closed; drivers exiting the Fourth Street ramp from Route 1 should turn onto Chestnut. Parking will be restricted for roughly a half-block in either direction while the work shifts across the intersection, and the MBTA has closed the bus stop at Fourth & Broadway; riders were directed to use the stop at Fifth & Broadway for the 1–11, 1–12 and 1–14 routes.

The contractor, Albanese, will be installing sewer and water-service work on the northwest side of Broadway; businesses requiring water-service replacement will be contacted at least 48 hours before work. The update encouraged drivers and pedestrians to avoid the work zone and provided an email contact (construction@chelseama.gov) and the city's 311 line for questions.

A commissioner asked whether the MBTA had posted signs; the reader said they would remind DPW to confirm signage and website notifications. The project will pause work on the next Friday noted in the update for the Thanksgiving holiday period referenced in the email.

Next steps: DPW to confirm MBTA signage and website notifications and to ensure affected businesses are notified as promised.