Page 8 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 MassDOT seeks $25M in federal funding for Mystic River Bridge T By Christopher Roberson he Mystic River Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge was one of just three projects in the state to be included in the grant application that the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) recently submitted to the federal RAISE Grant Program. Everett Transportation Planner Jay Monty said MassDOT is requesting $25 million from the federal government – the maximum amount permitted for one project. Should the application be approved, the state would likely contribute an additional $11.9 million to fully fund the bridge construction at $36.9 million. Monty said the various bicycle trails running through communities such as Lynn and Marblehead all eventually connect to the nine-mile Northern Strand Community Trail. “This route really feeds the whole North Shore trail network,” he said. With the Northern Strand already being extended to the Mystic River, the bridge would link the trail and the Harborwalk Connector to Draw Seven Park in Somerville. “This bridge is the last link to weave it all together,” said Monty. In addition, the project would provide pedestrian and bicycle access from LowCouncillor Le hosts campaign standout on Broadway A rendering of the proposed Mystic River Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge that would link the Northern Strand Community Trail and the Harborwalk Connector to Draw Seven Park in Somerville. (Photo Courtesy of MassDOT) er Broadway to Assembly Station on the MBTA Orange Line. RAISE Grant offi cials are expected to announce their decision by November 22. If the application is approved, MassDOT has indicated that construction would take approximately two to three years to complete. “This federal discretionary grant program gives us an opportunity to take on multi-modal projects that will increase and improve safer public travel options across the Commonwealth,” said Acting Transportation Secretary Jamey Tesler. “RAISE grants have the potential to open doors to safer, more effi cient and more secure travel where we have seen a demand from the public for improved connections and we appreciate the support of community members and advocates who have worked closely with members of the MassDOT team to put forth these comprehensive project applications.” Ward 4 Councillor Jimmy Tri Le (center) with some of his supporters in front of the Everett House of Pizza on July 21. (Courtesy Photo)
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