T
he building of a pedestrian bridge connecting Somerville and Encore Boston Harbor in Everett, Massachusetts, is moving forward. Last Friday, Governor Charlie Baker announced that his administration will complete the design, permitting and construction of the project, titled Mystic River Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge.
“This long-awaited project will provide the residents of Everett, Somerville and surrounding communities with a safe and convenient way to walk or bike across the Mystic River,” Baker said in a statement.
“Once built, the Mystic River bridge will re-connect these communities, enhance access to transportation and local businesses and link the long-distance trail network on the North Shore, delivering significant benefits to the entire region,” he added.
The pedestrian bridge will connect from Draw Seven Park, near the Assembly train station, to the Wynn Resorts-owned gambling venue, while linking communities within the Northern Strand and Mystic River trail network.
Upon completion, state officials estimate approximately 2,300 pedestrians and 350+ bicyclists will cross the bridge on a daily basis. The overpass will be approximately 12 feet wide, 785 feet long and 35 feet high at the top of the structure. It will feature lighting, signs and benches across its entire length.
Today I joined local, state and community officials to announce that our administration has committed to completing the design, permitting and construction of the Mystic River Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge to connect #Everett and #Somerville and enhance transportation. pic.twitter.com/JfijLilry5
— Charlie Baker (@MassGovernor) October 22, 2021
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission is supporting the project, with a commitment of $650,000 to finish the design and permitting phase of the bridge, which is expected to be completed in summer 2022. Construction is projected to begin in 2024 or sooner, pending the permitting process, reports Patch.
While the project predates the opening of the casino resort, Wynn Resorts, which would significantly benefit from its development, has championed the bridge, including proposals to cover part of its costs.
The bridge will imply approximately $35 to $49 million in construction cost, and will be under the care and custody of the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Public meetings were held in both Everett and Somerville, in addition to six large stakeholder meetings focused on various aspects of the project.
Certain controversy has been raised by the project, as the bridge linking Wynn’s property will be funded with taxpayer’s money. Rosie Abrams, spokesperson for Encore Boston Harbor, told Boston.com the company “has already paid for much of the design work,” confirming that “construction funding will come from other sources.”
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international//noticias/2021/10/26/59915-massachusetts-gov-introduces-bridge-connecting-wynns-encore-casino-with-somerville
