One of the least popular structures in the city may soon meet its fate, once Mass DOT planners determine the best course of action.

By Donald Norton

A large crowd of residents showed up at the Argenziano School last Wednesday evening for the first of what appears to be too many hearings over the tearing down of the McCarthy Overpass from Medford Street and Highland to Medford Street and Somerville Avenue.

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has begun the process that appears to be a very long one of tearing down the overpass and taking the road to ground level.

A large turnout of residents attended to hear and see what the process is going to be.

Mayor Curtatone spoke briefly on what it would mean to have this ugly relic of the 50’s gone while connecting the Eastern part of the city with the rest of the city.

The DOT had suggested three proposals and identified one they would prefer to begin with – called the “Boulevard Proposal” – taking the entire overpass down, and how it would work.

Many of those present suggested that a 6 lane road would be too wide, that 4 lanes would be sufficient and would reduce the flow of traffic through the city.

The DOT representatives stressed that it was just a beginning and that the concerns of the residents would be taken into consideration, but that the planning process is far from being over. They suggested that no end date was able to be determined.

Many residents present expressed pleasure that this was on the drawing board and being considered, that it is long overdue and Somerville would be better off for it.

The meeting lasted for a few hours and about 20 residents spoke.

For more information on what they are considering go to www.massdot.state.ma.us/groundingmcgrath/Home.aspx.