The Elm-Beacon Connector

As part of the implementation of the Somerville Bicycle Network Plan, the City of Somerville aims to install quick-build bike lanes along Elm Street from Russell Street to Somerville Avenue and Somerville Avenue from Acadia Park to Elm Street, in addition to making Mossland Street a Neighborway and creating a connection to the existing protected bike lanes on Beacon Street.

As part of this project, we intend to:

• Change the street layout with quick-build materials including painting new pavement markings, installing plastic flexible posts, and new street signage.
• Create protected bike lanes on Elm Street, Somerville Avenue, and Beacon Street by moving bike lanes next to the sidewalk curb and adding new buffered areas between vehicle or parking lanes.
• Make Mossland Street a Neighborway by greatly reducing traffic volumes, which will allow people on bikes to ride comfortably in the middle of the street.
• Make improvements for people using crosswalks by clearing the corners at all intersections in the project area to increase visibility and exploring options for increased pavement markings and signage at critical crosswalks.
• Improve the bus experience by considering bus stop relocation or consolidation to reduce delay, exploring adding bus stop amenities like benches and trash cans, and modifying traffic signal operations to move buses through major intersections more quickly.
• Reduce the number of on-street parking spaces to provide space for protected bike lanes. We will work with residents and businesses to identify the best regulations for the remaining parking spaces and explore options on nearby side streets.
• Increase safety for people traveling Elm Street, Somerville Avenue, Mossland Street and Beacon Street in this effort.

This work will help the City meet the requirements set forth in the Somerville Safe Streets Ordinance and continue to meet our Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic fatalities and reducing severe injuries.