We didn’t make the top 5, but in a report released yesterday, MassDOT named the entire stretch of Route 9 in Newton as one of the most congested corridors in the state. In findings that may seem obvious to Newton residents, MassDOT declared that our roadways are at a “tipping point,” impacting access to jobs and overflowing traffic onto our local roads.
Newton Corner also got a mention with an allusion to outdated traffic lights that cause backups that stretch onto the Mass Pike. The report was very specific in NOT discussing local roads, but used that as an example of where local traffic affects the broader state highway system.
The funny thing is that during s snowstorm try 9 is the most reliable way to go either east or west. The speed slowdown causes fewer accidents than the pike. When there’s an accident on the pike you can be stopped ( my personal best is 2:45 min to Southborough) but on route 9 slow and steady gets you there. So I take route 9 all the way to Southborough during snowstorms.
Should Route 9 be uncongested?
Toll Route 9.
Why is it that I do not find traffic or parking in Newton be a problem?
Ma Pike going into Boston in the morning and out of Boston late afternoon can be a problem, 128 North or South can suck anytime of day. Parking in Newton center can be tough.
But for those that are always talking about how congested Newton is and how difficult it is to park I just don’t see it. Why?
I’ve noticed a huge difference in the amount of congestion in Newton, especially the last few years. To get from one end of the city to the other can easily now take 45-60 minutes. That wasn’t always the case.