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IHPC approves temporary curb extensions and truck apron on College Avenue with conditions and one-year review
Summary
DPW proposed a set of safety improvements (truck apron at the 6-way intersection, semi-permanent polymer curb extensions and a speed table) to calm traffic on College Avenue near Mass Ave; IHPC approved temporary installations with stipulations requiring neighborhood consultation, color/material sign-off and a re-evaluation/possible conversion to permanent curb work by June 3, 2027.
The commission considered a Department of Public Works resurfacing project for College Avenue that includes a permanent concrete truck apron at the Mass Ave intersection and a set of semi-permanent polymer curb extensions to calm southbound traffic, plus a speed-table near 9th Street.
DPW engineers said the temporary/polymer curbs were selected to avoid expensive curb reconstruction and drainage work in a combined-sewer area; DPW chief engineer Mark St. John emphasized the choice was to provide an interim safety improvement without triggering a full reconstruction. DPW noted the permanent truck apron at the intersection will be reinforced concrete and designed to withstand heavy vehicles.
Mass Ave stakeholders—including Meg Starro, president of the Mass Ave Cultural District and Merchants Association—supported the safety intent but requested the city use materials compatible with the historic corridor (brick, stone or concrete), stronger crash-rated bollards and neighborhood design review. Residents expressed concerns about previous problematic bump-outs at Bottle Works and asked for more neighborhood outreach.
Staff recommended approval subject to stipulations: final construction drawings, temporary nature of polymer curb extensions with a deadline to remove/replace or reapprove by summer 2027, staff approval of colors/paver patterns in consultation with neighborhood stakeholders, and IHPC staff sign-off on any design changes before construction. The commission voted to approve the temporary curb extensions and truck apron with those conditions and asked DPW to engage the neighborhood and return with a plan for a more permanent treatment during the coming year.
