Press Release  MassDOT Leaders Visit Pittsfield, Cummington to Highlight Regional Transportation Priorities

PITTSFIELD/CUMMINGTON — The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) today celebrated two major milestones in Western Massachusetts, highlighting investments that improve safety, mobility and local infrastructure. Interim Secretary Phillip Eng and Undersecretary Jonathan Gulliver joined state and local officials for a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new roundabout in Pittsfield, followed by a groundbreaking event for a bridge preservation project in Cummington. 

The new Pittsfield roundabout located at North Street and First Street includes geometric and traffic signal improvements at three intersections, the intersection of Route 7 with Tyler Street, Charles Street and Springfield Avenue. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities improvements will also include separate on-street bicycle lanes, sidewalks and shared-use paths along the corridor.  

“Investments in transportation is investment in our communities, economy and the public we serve.  Under the leadership of the Healey-Driscoll Administration, the MassDOT team takes great pride in delivering meaningful projects that improve safety for all modes of travel,” said Interim MassDOT Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “The new roundabout in Pittsfield is a prime example making travel safer and more efficient for everyone who lives, works and visits here.  We are committed to working with every community across the entire state, fulfilling our responsibilities to all from large urban cities to small rural towns.”   

The visit also included a groundbreaking of the Cummington Bridge over the Westfield River. The construction will include the replacement of the existing concrete deck, steel safety curbs, installation of new wheel guards and recons of approach roadways. Other improvements include re-painting, furnishing guardrails and maintaining safety controls. Construction began in September of this year and is slated to be completed by the end of 2028.  

Whether it’s Pittsfield roundabout construction or bridge preservation in Cummington, our singular focus is on designing and building infrastructure that keeps people safe, connected, and moving,” said Undersecretary and State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver.  “As just two components of our $2 billion capital program, we continue to forge ahead with investments that strengthen our transportation network, support the economy, and the movement of freight through all corners of the Commonwealth.” 

“The City of Pittsfield is grateful for our partnership with the Healey-Driscoll administration and state agencies like MassDOT to bring projects to our community that improve safety for all,” said Mayor Peter Marchetti. “This project sits at the connecting point between the Tyler Street corridor and downtown, two areas where we have been making major investments in streetscape, accessibility, and economic revitalization.” 

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