Project overview and status
This will take place along the Route 20 intersection of South Street and Green Street. Project limits end west of the Route 9 interchange. The western part of the project will improve the South and Green intersection. It will also add an eastbound travel lane and left-turn lanes. The eastern part of the project includes two roundabouts. One is at the intersection of the Rent-A-Fence and Lumber Liquidators driveways. The second roundabout will be at the Valente Drive intersection. A raised median will separate east and westbound traffic between the two roundabouts.
The project will also address the lack of multi-modal transportation options. Large sidewalks and shared use paths will exist throughout the project area. Grass buffers will separate the sidewalks from the shared use paths.
This project will improve road safety for all users. This includes reducing high travel speeds, accommodating future traffic conditions, and improving congestion.
A map showing the preferred alternative design for the project:
Existing conditions
High crash locations and travel speeds are a result of current conditions. There is also a high potential for fatal and injury type crashes throughout the project area.
From 2013-2015, Walnut Street was a Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Cluster. The intersection of Route 20 and Valente Drive was also a HSIP Cluster from 2017-2019.
The Statewide MPO/RPA classifies part of the project area as a Top 5 ranking for fatal and injury type crashes.
Increased roadway congestion from anticipated business developments is also a concern.
Contributing to unsafe conditions are narrow shoulder widths and sight-distance issues. There is also a lack of dedicated turning lanes and multimodal accommodations.
Anticipated project work schedule
- Fall 2022: Public Outreach
- Fall 2023: 25% Design Submission
- Spring 2024: Design Public Hearing
- Summer 2026: Project Advertisement
- Fall 2026: Begin Construction
Project history and background
This project is following the completion of a Master Plan Study in February 2020.
The Master Plan outlines improvements to the entire Route 20 Corridor within Shrewsbury. It addresses road safety issues and roadway operations for bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists. while supporting anticipated future economic development.