If you live or work in Fall River, you’ve probably noticed that construction projects are a regular part of life in the city. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has just announced a big one: a six-week street closure starting soon as part of the Route 79/Davol Street Reconstruction Project. While this work is necessary for much-needed improvements to the area, it’s definitely going to shake up daily commutes and travel in the city for a little while.
What’s the Project All About?
This closure is part of a larger project that aims to overhaul one of the key roadways in Fall River—Route 79 and Davol Street. The goal is to update aging infrastructure, improve traffic flow, and make the roads safer for everyone who uses them. The six-week street closure will allow crews to tackle essential work like widening roads, upgrading utilities, and redesigning intersections. These upgrades are part of a long-term plan to better handle the traffic demands in the area.
When and Where Is the Closure Happening?
Starting mid-June and lasting until the end of July, Davol Street will be closed off for a full six weeks. This includes important sections of Route 79, meaning drivers will need to find alternate routes. Local businesses, residents, and commuters should expect delays and some inconvenience as crews do their work. The streets affected will be clearly marked, and there will be signs directing drivers to detour routes to help ease the impact.
How Will This Affect Commuters and Local Residents?
If you use Route 79 or Davol Street regularly, the next six weeks are going to be a bit of a challenge. Expect traffic to back up, and make sure you have extra time to get where you need to go. For many locals, this may mean taking unfamiliar roads or dealing with longer commutes.
Businesses along the street might also notice a decrease in foot traffic, and anyone who relies on public transportation will likely see some changes to bus schedules and routes. MassDOT is encouraging riders to check with their local transit agency for updated info.
MassDOT Is Committed to Keeping You Informed
Understanding that this closure will be an inconvenience, MassDOT is making it a priority to keep the community informed every step of the way. They will be providing regular updates on the street closure, detours, and any changes to public transit via their website and social media pages. They’ve even set up a dedicated hotline to answer any questions residents may have.
In addition to these updates, MassDOT is planning community meetings and informational sessions, so locals can stay in the loop about what’s happening and what to expect in the future. While they know construction can be frustrating, they’re committed to making this process as smooth as possible for Fall River residents.
What’s Next for the Route 79/Davol Street Project?
This six-week closure is just one part of a bigger, multi-phase project that will continue for several years. After the closure wraps up, work will keep going in other areas around Route 79 and Davol Street, meaning there may be more detours and minor disruptions in the future. However, once everything is finished, Fall River will have a modernized, safer, and more efficient transportation system, which will benefit both residents and visitors.
Why This Matters for Fall River
The changes that will come from the Route 79/Davol Street Reconstruction Project are big, and while they might be tough in the short term, they’re necessary for Fall River’s growth. The roads in this area have long been in need of an upgrade, and improving them will help with traffic congestion, provide safer crossings for pedestrians, and improve access for everyone who lives and works in the area.
In the long run, the improvements are expected to make Fall River a more attractive place for businesses and visitors alike. While the construction may be a temporary headache, it’s all part of a plan to build a stronger, more connected city.
Conclusion
Massachusetts’ plan for a six-week street closure in Fall River as part of the Route 79/Davol Street project is an important step in the city’s development. Though the closure will bring some challenges, the end result will be better roads, improved safety, and smoother traffic flow. For now, it’s important for residents to stay informed about the detours and any changes to their usual routines. With MassDOT’s commitment to clear communication, the community will be well-prepared to handle the next few weeks.
