Somerville Shared Streets & COVID-19 Mobility
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, in Summer 2020 the City of Somerville partnered with Neighborways Design to support the implementation of a network of shared streets throughout the City. Adopting local and national best practice design principles, the Somerville Shared Streets initiative created additional open space for residents by opening low-volume and residential side-streets - streets who typically have under 2,000 vehicles per day - to pedestrians, cyclists, and other users while maintaining access to resident, delivery, public works and emergency vehicles.
The Somerville Shared Streets network as shown on Google Maps
Building upon the City’s existing Neighborways network, the staff of the Somerville Mobility Division selected approximately 61 streets, totaling 13.2 linear miles, for the initiative. The inclusion of the network on Google Maps prevented thru traffic from users of the navigation platform.
The gateways to the entrance of each Shared Street were outfitted with signage indicating the temporary, which could be easily moved when sudden and unexpected adjustments were needed.
Shared Streets gateway at Highland Rd, Somerville
On select streets known for having a high volume of thru-traffic, flex posts and advisory signage were strategically installed about every 300’, helping to reduce vehicle speeds while limiting impact to turning movements and parking.
Mini-chicane made with flex posts
Fellsway West, Somerville
Neckdown with a priority bike lane
Morrison Ave, Somerville
On Morrison Ave, traffic studies have shown that interventions have resulted in a 20% decrease in instances of speeding over the speed limit (25 MPH), from 34% of vehicles down to 14%.
As a temporary initiative, the Somerville Shared Streets initiative is set to conclude as social distancing protocol is loosened. A robust community engagement process has provided the City and Neighborways with some valuable feedback, including a desire for the inclusion of additional traffic calming features along the length of each street. The city’s hope is to translate lessons learned into more permanent features and an expansion of the established Neighborways program.
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Neighborways Design is a planning and design firm specializing in transportation, art, and community engagement. Our vision is to build networks of slow, welcoming streets inviting everyone; places that prioritize people – children to older adults - walking and biking. Learn more about our work at neighborways.com and by find us on social media. LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram.
