Tim's Community Blog

Next Week: Transportation Day on the Hill

2012-01-25T15:09:00.003-05:00

Tuesday, January 31st will be MassDOT's Transportation Day on the Hill. This will be a great opportunity to meet and ask questions of MassDOT's top officials, get a fast-lane pass for your car, and learn about wide range of services that MassDOT offers residents. Please see the invite below for more information:

Secretary Richard A. Davey cordially invites you to MassDOT's Transportation Day on the Hill on Tuesday, January 31st at 1 pm in Nurse's Hall at the State House, Boston. At this event, MassDOT will host interactive tables where a number of transportation-related services will be offered and we would like to encourage each of you to invite your constituents and community members to attend this important event.

Senior MassDOT Officials will be present to answer questions and concerns from you, your staff, your constituents and the general public. Each Administrator will make a brief presentation at the beginning of our Day on the Hill and will be available to help resolve your inquiries in person. Agency Staff will also help guide you and your constituents through a wealth of information and direct you to MassDOT resources that will aid in helping answer constituent questions in the future.
Some of the services we will offer at this event include:
Free Fast-Lane Passes
Registration Renewal and RMV Online Services
Sign-up for MBTA Alerts
Guidance for Downloading MBTA Smartphone Applications
Information on City of Boston Meter Cards
Free MassDOT Tourism Maps
“Drive Smart and Save” Initiative
Information on our award-winning Accelerated Bridge Program that is creating thousands of construction jobs in the Commonwealth
See how MassDOT works with local schools in the Massachusetts Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program
Information about NuRide, the nation’s largest reward program for individual’s who take greener trips.
Officials from MassDOT, including staff from the MBTA, Highway Division, RMV and Aeronautics will be available to answer any specific questions you may have. The following MassDOT officials will be present and available to you during this important event:

Secretary and CEO Richard A. Davey
Highway Administrator Frank DePoala
Acting General Manager Jonathan Davis
Registrar of Motor Vehicles Rachel Kaprielian
Aeronautics Administrator Christopher Willenborg
Acting MassPort CEO David Mackey

We hope that you, your staff and constituents will be able to attend. MassDOT has prepared some valuable information on transportation related services that we know will be useful to you and your staff and we encourage you to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.
We look forward to seeing you there.

Broadway Sidewalk Reconstruction Community Meeting Jan. 11th

2012-01-05T16:24:00.000-05:00

The City of Cambridge has begun planning for the renovation and reconstruction of sidewalks on Broadway between Prospect Street and Portland Street. Please see the notice below for information about an upcoming community meeting that will be held to discuss the coming construction:

Date: Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Time: 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Fletcher Maynard School Library, Second Floor, 225 Windsor St

Dear Broadway Neighbor,

The City of Cambridge is currently developing plans to reconstruct the roadway and sidewalk on Broadway between Prospect Street and Portland Street. Please join us at the community meeting to learn more about the project, give your feedback, and discuss options for sidewalk materials.

OVERALL PROJECT GOALS
Improve deteriorating roadway and sidewalk infrastructure.
Enhance the area for all users – pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
Improve the safety of pedestrians going to and from Sennott Park (Tremont Street).
Increase the number of street trees.
Improve drainage to reduce ponding on the roadway.
SIDEWALK MATERIALS – CITY POLICY

The City’s policy is to replace existing sidewalks with the same material (concrete with concrete, brick with wire cut brick). During construction, property owners are given the option of changing their sidewalk material, as described below.
Keep existing sidewalk material – no cost to property owner.
Change from brick to concrete – no cost to property owner.
Change from concrete to brick – property owner pays the differential cost.
The City’s policy provides flexibility for property owners, but results in a mix of sidewalk materials.
SIDEWALK MATERIALS – BROADWAY
The existing sidewalks on Broadway are a combination of concrete (75%) and brick (25%), similar to the mix of sidewalk materials throughout the city.
This project can follow the City policy for sidewalk material, as described above, which will continue the mix of materials on a property by property basis.
Or, we can implement a more unified approach by providing a concrete surface for the walking area and a brick feature strip, as shown in the photo. In addition to creating a unified look for the street, this approach has the benefit of providing a concrete surface for the walking area, which is strongly preferred by people with disabilities, while maintaining a visually appealing mix of brick and concrete.
The meeting location is accessible; however, persons in need of ADA / Title II accommodations should contact Brian McLane at 617-349-4824 or bmclane@cambridgema.gov. To receive future updates related to construction of Broadway via email, please contact Kelly Dunn, Community Relations Manager at kdunn@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4870.

New Lechmere Station Design Progressing, Concerns Linger About McGrath Crossing, Bus Routes

2011-12-21T11:39:00.000-05:00

On the evening of Wednesday, December 14th, residents, activists, representatives from NorthPoint developer HYM, and architects and planners from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation gathered at the Kennedy-Longfellow school to discuss the latest changes and developments in the design of the new Lechmere Station.

From the changes that have been made as the station design has evolved, it is clear that the public design process has produced a station design much more in line with the community's vision of an ideal Lechmere station. The station entrance has been moved to a location more equally accessible by East Cambridge residents. What was a narrow space between the station and McGrath has been widened to 30 feet, a change enabled by alterations to the path of First Street. The design of the station has been altered to promote a more even flow of pedestrians coming from all directions, and a more direct route to the Lechmere bus stop when crossing from East Cambridge.

While these changes are strong steps forward, it is clear from the questions and comments directed toward MassDOT at the end of the meeting that a number of concerns about pedestrian safety and access have not yet been assuaged by station designers. There is still a long pedestrian crosswalk that must traverse a busy section of the McGrath Highway/Boulevard. Developer HYM has made a number of suggestions to MassDOT about how this crossing can be approached in a way that maximizes pedestrian safety and comfort. Their suggestions include using different lighting and paving elements at the intersection of McGrath and First Street to encourage drivers to slow down and eliminating the right hand turn lane from the inbound side of McGrath. I am looking forward to seeing what MassDOT puts forward in reaction to these suggested improvements.

Another concern that was voiced by several members of the meeting's audience was that bus access to East Cambridge will be diminished by the relocation of the station. Moving Lechmere across McGrath will require buses to turn off of Cambridge Street at Third Street, and reroute buses away from destinations like the Courthouse. Access to buses, particularly for the elderly and disabled, is a primary concern of mine, and I am interested to see how these concerns will be addressed.

As a final part of the meeting, MassDOT officials briefly discussed the potential for phased construction of the Green Line Extension and what that will mean for Lechmere's completion date. Because of Lechmere's placement in an early construction phase, the new station could be open in early 2017, well ahead of the projected 2019 date for the completion of the entire extension. This is very exciting news, and I will be pushing for a commitment from MassDOT to begin phased construction as soon as possible.

MassDOT has also announced that there will be a number of meetings coming up in the near future. Be on the lookout for Washington Street and Union Square station design meetings in late January, and meetings about the Maintenance Facility and Community Path in early April. I will post more detailed meeting information on my community blog as soon as it is available.

MassDOT Shelves Grand Junction Proposal

2011-12-08T22:00:00.008-05:00

On the evening of Thursday, December 8th, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) held a public meeting to discuss their plans for the future of the Grand Junction Railroad. After purchasing Grand Junction from the freight operator CSX, MassDOT began exploring the line’s potential use as a connector between the Worcester Commuter Rail line and North Station. Because of the Grand Junction Railroad's close proximity to residential neighborhoods in Cambridge, many people took notice of this proposal and it was met with a large amount of community opposition.

At tonight's meeting, MassDOT announced that it does not intend to pursue plans for Commuter Rail service on Grand Junction at this time.

This decision was arrived at through the execution of a feasibility analysis that included a ridership study. If the addition of Commuter Rail service from Worcester direct to North Station had been found to increase ridership by a significant level, MassDOT may have ruled favorably on its feasibility. However, the agency's ridership study found that implementing Grand Junction service would only increase the line's ridership by 300 people from now until 2035. While there would be regional air quality benefits from the diversion of 250 cars per day due to the small increase in utilization of the Commuter Rail, MassDOT's feasibility study has conceded that there would be real negative impacts for the city of Cambridge in the areas of traffic, air quality, noise, and vibration.

MassDOT's announcement did come with one caveat: if the required level of funding for a renovation of South Station cannot be secured, the agency would be forced to examine other alternatives for alleviating congestion. At the top of that list would likely be Grand Junction. I will be closely following the South Station expansion’s progress and working with my colleagues in the state legislature to facilitate funding for the project. Expanding South Station will have far reaching benefits for the transit system as a whole, and will keep rail traffic on Grand Junction down.

As a final note, I would like to point out that MassDOT will be undertaking a number of rail improvement projects along the Grand Junction over the next couple of years. These improvements are designed to reduce noise and vibration coming from existing rail traffic and to enhance safety. You may see construction crews working on the rails, but they are not a sign that MassDOT has reverted to their original proposal. Any change in plans would need to go through a public process just as the original proposal did, and would require an environmental review.

I was given the opportunity to speak briefly at the meeting in order to thank the community for its attention to and involvement in this very important issue.

I would like to thank the many talented and committed individuals who eloquently articulated our community's concerns and opposition to this project over the course of the last year. I see this result as a resounding victory for the Cambridge and Somerville neighborhoods that would have been negatively impacted by this proposal, and also a victory for the public proposal process. MassDOT deserves credit for keeping this process open to the community and taking our concerns seriously. Community feedback does indeed matter, and this issue is an excellent example of what kind of results that feedback can help achieve.

Grand Junction Public Meeting December 8th

2011-11-22T12:19:00.000-05:00

Please see the invite below for information about an upcoming meeting that will be held to update residents on the Grand Junction commuter rail ridership and feasibility study:

Grand Junction Commuter Rail Feasibility Study -- Public Meeting

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is pleased to announce a community meeting to discuss progress on the Grand Junction Commuter Rail Feasibility Study.

This meeting will be held:

Thursday, December 8, 6:30pm-8:00pm

Kennedy-Longfellow School – Auditorium

158 Spring Street, Cambridge

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss an ongoing study of the potential use of the Grand Junction Railroad for supplemental MBTA Commuter Rail service to Cambridge and North Station. At this meeting, MassDOT staff members will discuss results of a ridership analysis and traffic impact analysis, as well as overall study findings, and next steps. This meeting follows up on a community meeting held last June. For more information on prior meetings, see out study website at: http://massdot.state.ma.us/planning/GrandJunctionTransportationStudy.aspx.

All are welcome at the meeting, and please feel free to share this notice. For more information, or to request alternative language or other special accommodations, please contact Matthew Ciborowski at matthew.ciborowski@state.ma.us, or (617) 973-7180.

Please join us on December 8^th!

Redistricting Plan Could Divide Cambridge

2011-11-17T13:17:00.000-05:00

Last week, the state legislature's Special Joint Committee on Redistricting released its proposed maps for Massachusetts' Congressional districts. As can be seen in the map below, this could possibly mean that for many Cambridge residents, their representative in Congress will change.

The 7th Congressional District (formerly the 8th) is shown in tan.

The legislature has approved this redistricting plan, and an amendment filed by Representative Alice Wolf that would have kept Cambridge within one Congressional district was defeated.

I want to take this opportunity to express my belief that Cambridge should remain whole within its Congressional district. Instead of maintaining a united Cambridge, the proposed district maps would have neighbors (in some cases neighbors living on the same street) being represented in Congress by different people. I am concerned about how this proposal could dilute Cambridge's role in Congressional elections and change the way in which its citizens are represented at the Federal level.

Despite joining with a number of my colleagues this week to voice the level of concern that this proposal has generated among the residents of Cambridge, the plan has cleared the legislature and now awaits Governor Patrick's signature. While it was my hope that we would see the final district map place all of Cambridge in one Congressional district as it has been for nearly 70 years, it appears that the city will be divided. I will be closely monitoring how this plan, which will require changes to Cambridge's precinct map, will affect the state, local, and national voting process for Cambridge residents.

Community Meeting Recap

2011-11-03T16:37:00.001-04:00

Last night I hosted a community meeting at the Cambridge Police Station to discuss the recent rash of armed robberies that have occurred in Cambridge and have been concentrated in the East Cambridge and Wellington-Harrington neighborhoods. The meeting was packed with at least one hundred residents, and was well attended by Cambridge Police officers and administrators, including Police Commissioner Robert Haas.

The best news that we have learned is that there have been no new incidents since the incidents that occurred over a 2-3 day span last week. Police believe that a total of five robberies in Cambridge are linked to each other, but that similar robberies have also occurred in other communities in the Boston area. While the police stressed that it is important for residents to remain alert and on guard, they believe that the pattern is moving out of Cambridge and into the surrounding area.

Even if the threat of robbery has declined, police still advised residents to familiarize themselves with what they should do if they are robbed. The most important thing is to comply completely, especially if the assailants are armed. Belongings can be replaced but your life cannot be. Do not chase after the robber when they leave.

Someone who is robbed should seek help immediately and call 911 with the closest available phone. If the police do not arrive right away, do not be alarmed and stay where you are. The first priority of responding officers will be to search the area in which you were robbed. Once a search has been conducted, police will respond to your location.

While police are currently reluctant to release specifics about their investigation, they have said that they have a number of leads that they are investigating. They do not believe the suspects are Cambridge residents and have said that the suspects have been changing the vehicle that they use as a getaway.

In order to prevent additional robberies, the Cambridge Police have heavily stepped up police presence in neighborhoods where robberies have occured. A number of plain-clothes detectives are also patrolling the neighborhoods and are on the lookout for suspicious persons.

The city and the Police Department are taking this crime spree extremely seriously and are doing everything possible to prevent future incidents from occurring and to bring the perpetrators of last week's crimes to justice. If you believe that you have information that may aid police in their investigation of these crimes, please call 617-349-3300 or send a text to TIP411 (847411) and begin your message with "TIP650" (no quotation marks).

Recent Robbery Spree

2011-10-27T17:10:00.000-04:00

As many of you may know, there has been a string of armed robberies in Cambridge in recent days, with some of the robberies occurring in East Cambridge. East Cambridge is known as a safe, relatively quiet neighborhood, and to see crimes like these happen here is especially disturbing.

Here are the facts about what has happened so far: since Monday, there have been a total of 6 incidents around the city. On Monday night (October 24th), a woman was robbed of her purse on Marney Street around 8:00 p.m. Half an hour later, a delivery driver was robbed on Thorndike Street.

On Tuesday morning, there were instances of two men being held up for their cell phones and money. These incidents occurred on Chatham and Hancock Streets.

On Tuesday night, there were two more robberies within minutes of each other. At 11:45, a man was approached from behind by two assailants near the intersection of Harvard and Dana Streets. He was robbed of his cell phone, laptop, and money. Eight minutes later, another man was approached by two assailants at the intersection of Cardinal Medeiros Avenue and Marney Street and was also robbed.

Each victim reported being robbed by two black men with a handgun. None of the victims were injured.

The Cambridge police have asked residents to be alert and aware of their surroundings when walking on the street, and to walk in pairs or groups if possible. If you are walking alone, do not wear headphones as they impair your ability to be alert and aware. If you feel that you are being followed, show that you are suspicious by turning to look at the person you believe to be following you. This shows that you are alert and will not be taken by surprise. If you are being followed by a car, turn and walk in the opposite direction.

Most importantly, if you are approached by a robber, DO NOT RESIST, especially if the robber is armed. Belongings can be replaced. Human life cannot. If you are robbed, try to remember details about the assailants, such as height, age, race, and any identifying marks, scars, or tattoos so that you may relay them to the police.

At this time, the Cambridge Police are actively following a number of leads on these incidents. CPD is developing a plan for increasing patrols in neighborhoods in which these robberies have occurred, and a team of detectives has been dedicated to these cases.

I am in the process of planning a community meeting to take place some time next week in order to relay information to residents and discuss the community and police response to these crimes. Please check back here for information about the time and date.

Mock Green Line Groundbreaking Declares that we are Shovel Ready

2011-10-26T16:38:00.000-04:00

Dozens of people gathered outside the Somerville High School on Thursday night to declare that our communities are "shovel ready" for the long-awaited Green Line Extension. Groups from Cambridge, Somerville, Arlington, and Medford gathered to demand progress on the project, which the Massachusetts Department of Transportation recently announced would be delayed by up to five years.


Somerville Mayor Joe Curtatone speaks about Somerville's need for the Green Line Extension.

Speakers from a wide cross-section of local community groups gave voice to the range of needs that the Green Line Extension will fulfill. A new public transit system in Somerville and Medford will mean greatly improved access to transit for the elderly and disabled, provide a greater number of job opportunities for those who rely on public transit to get around, and introduce a flood of new customers from around the region to local businesses.

Twenty years after its conception as mitigation for the Big Dig, I think we can all agree that the Green Line Extension is long overdue. Getting real shovels in the ground as quickly as possible is more critical now than it ever has been before, and is a way for the state to renew its commitment to the project at a time of great public anxiety and mistrust over its future.

While I was incredibly disappointed by this summer's announcement of further Green Line Extension delays, I am pleased that talks are moving forward on a phased construction plan that would begin rail bridge work necessary for the project as soon as next year. This was a major ask of the Green Line legislative delegation when we met with the Governor at the end of the summer. I firmly believe that once the state begins to invest in the infrastructure for the Green Line Extension, it will be difficult for officials to justify further scheduled delays in the completion of the entire project. Even after ground has been officially broken, the state has shown us that continued community involvement in conjunction with the active engagement of elected officials will be necessary until the last piece of rail is laid. We have been shown that we cannot always count on the deliverance environmental justice to communities that deserve it, and instead those communities must continue to fight for it until it is delivered.

Please check back here often for the latest news about the Green Line Extension and what is being done to ensure that it is completed.

Tomorrow: Mock Green Line Extension Groundbreaking

2011-10-19T16:19:00.000-04:00

Somerville High School - map

A mock groundbreaking and demonstration will be held tomorrow at 6 p.m. at the Somerville High School before the Green Line Extension public meeting that is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. The goal of the mock groundbreaking is to protest the recently announced delays in the target completion date for the Green Line Extension project and to show that the citizens of Somerville, Medford, and Cambridge and their representatives are ready for work to begin now.

All are invited to attend the rally and public hearing that will follow. If you believe that the Green Line Extension needs to be a top priority of the state, I would encourage you to turn out tomorrow and show how shovel-ready our community is.

The Green Line Extension is a legally mandated, desperately needed public transportation project and is part of a commitment that Massachusetts has made to bring a level of environmental justice to communities that have been negatively impacted by the Big Dig. The recent announcement by MassDOT that the Green Line Extension will be delayed 5 years or more past its scheduled 2015 completion date is not acceptable, and has been met by a great deal of resistance from both the public and their elected representatives.

I encourage you to join Somerville Mayor Joe Curtatone, State Senator Pat Jehlen, State Representative Denise Provost, myself, and others that will be in attendance for the event. Many community groups from Cambridge, Somerville, Medford, and across Massachusetts will also be in attendance, including the Conservation Law Foundation, Somerville Transportation Equity Partnership, East Cambridge Planning Team, Livable Streets Alliance, MASSPIRG, the Medford Green Line Neighborhood Alliance, and others, many of which have been intimately involved with the Green Line Extension project from the very beginning. It is important that we demonstrate the need for this project to get back on track. I hope to see you there.

Somerville Begins Single Stream Recycling This Week

2011-10-19T11:40:00.000-04:00

This week marked the beginning of the city-wide implementation of Somerville's Single-Stream Recycling program. Single-stream recycling, which allows residents to dispose of all of their recyclable waste into one large bin without sorting, is designed to increase rates of recycling and make recycling more convenient for citizens. When single-stream recycling was tested in limited parts of Somerville last year, recycling rates increased nearly 60%, giving weight to the argument that single-stream encourages residents to recycle more. The City of Somerville expects to save money on its disposal costs through this program, as well.

The small bins that residents have used for their recycling in the past may either be kept or disposed of (the bins themselves are recyclable). To dispose of a bin, the City has asked that residents simply place it on top of their new recycling bin on trash pickup day.

All collection schedules will remain the same. Any questions about this program should be directed to Somerville's constituent services office, which can be reached by dialing 311.

Second Annual ECBA Rib Fest a Major Success

2011-10-17T12:32:00.000-04:00

Cambridge Street, East Cambridge - map

Thousands of people descended upon East Cambridge from around the region on Sunday to enjoy some of the best BBQ in the greater Boston area. 19 restaurants from Cambridge and Somerville competed for the honor of best ribs in the second annual "Smoke This Rib Fest" while showcasing their menus to festival-goers. Ticket holders were given the opportunity to cast votes for the winner of the "People's Choice Award," and a panel of judges awarded a separate award for the ribs they judged to be best at the event.

Rib Fest drew thousands of people to Cambridge St. in East Cambridge.

This Sunday's Rib Fest, which was organized by the East Cambridge Business Association (ECBA), was the second Rib Fest held by the ECBA in as many years. Both attendance and the number of restaurants participating were up significantly this year, and it looks like Rib Fest is turning into a popular regional event. Both WBUR and the Boston Globe publicized the event in the days leading up to it, and attendees gave the food, music, and atmosphere rave reviews.

Christopher Kosinski of East Side Bar and Grill accepts the people's choice award for best ribs.

Hakan Yucesoy of Bosphorus Mediterranean Restaurant accepts the judge's award for best ribs.

I was given the distinct honor of announcing the winners of both the people's and judge's awards for best ribs. The People's Choice Award went to reining champions East Side Bar and Grill of East Cambridge, and the judge's award went to newcomer Bosphorus of Inman Square.

This was another fantastic family event put on by the ECBA, and if you missed it this year, make plans to come out next fall for what will certainly be the best Rib Fest yet!

Transfer Station to Leave Brickbottom Next Year

2011-10-07T15:30:00.000-04:00

As was reported in the Somerville Journal earlier this week, Waste Management, which operates a waste transfer station in the Brickbottom area of Somerville, will be required to vacate its location on Poplar Street by October 1st, 2012. The eviction of the transfer station was a goal that Somerville Mayor Joe Curtatone articulated in his 2011 State of the City address:

“We aim to reclaim the Brickbottom and this is an essential step to making that happen,” said Curtatone in a press release. “This represents an opportunity to build a new gateway to the city.”

[...]

The old Somerville municipal trash incinerator was built in 1907, according to “Beyond the Neck: The Architecture and Development of Somerville, Massachusetts,” and the tan-brick building survived the demolition that occurred all around it. Sometime in the 1990s, the building was converted into a trash transfer station, basically a depot on the way to dumps or incinerators. Read the rest of Andy Metzger's October 4th, 2011 article on the removal of the transfer station.

This is exciting news for an area that has seen decades of stunted growth after most of the neighborhood was demolished to make way for the Inner Belt Expressway, a highway transportation project which was never completed. It is my hope that the future completion of the Washington Street station as a component of the Green Line Extension will pave the way for strong, mass-transit based redevelopment of the transfer station and surrounding areas.

As can be seen in the photo above, the close proximity of the transfer station to the planned Washington Street station makes it a prime area for mixed-use or residential development with excellent access to the Green Line and local bus service, and a short walk to shops, bars, and restaurants in Union Square. I am looking forward to seeing how this space will grow and change for the better in the coming years.

ECBA Smoke This Rib Fest This Sunday!

2011-10-07T14:17:00.001-04:00

Forecasters are expecting excellent weather for this Sunday's Rib Fest in East Cambridge. Today is the last day to purchase a ticket for the rib tasting, so be sure to get yours while they last! See the post below from the East Cambridge Business Association for more information:

The East Cambridge Business Association (ECBA) is proud to present The East Cambridge Business Association “Smoke This” Rib Fest 2011, on Sunday October 9, 2011 from 12:00 noon – 4:00pm. The Rib Fest and Street Fair will take place on Cambridge Street in East Cambridge, between Fulkerson Street and Fifth Street.

The Rib Fest is a culinary showdown pitting pit master against pit master for the title of the best ribs in town. The event is for all ages so come and enjoy some BBQ. There will be plenty of food and fun to be had, but for the best chance to sample a variety of ribs and to cast your vote, you’ll need a Taste Ticket which will get you 10 rib samples from the restaurants of your choice at a first come first serve basis. Taste Tickets go on sale September 1^st. Additionally, each restaurants will be selling a dish of their own, showcasing their own menu.

Join Abigail's, Area Four, ARTBAR, Atasca, Atwood's Tavern, Bambara, Bosphorus, CRLS Culinary School, East Side Bar and Grille, Lord Hobo, Midwest Grill, Muqueca, New Deal Fish Market, Portugalia, Lizzy’s, Redbones, Think Tank, Trina's Starlight Lounge, and Tupelo as they compete for their chance at BBQ glory!

Enjoy cooking demonstrations from local chefs, brought to you by how2heroes, while the kids enjoy fun and games with The East End House. Local favorites Hayride, and The Atwood’s Monday Night Bluegrass Band will get you moving with their Bluegrass and Americana rhythms.

Rib Fest is a perfect opportunity to get a taste of the local fare in and near East Cambridge and
is sponsored by the East Cambridge Savings Bank, Alexandria Real Estate Equities,
Forest City, HYM Investments, Education First, Clark Hunt Ahern and Embry,
The Royal Sonesta, CPCU Credit Union, Gentle Giant, New England Tango Academy, McKinnon Company, Kroner Design, Royal Hospitality, M.I.T., City Retail, Vinfen, and SVNGR. See http://www.eastcambridgeba.com/ for further event and Taste Ticket info.

Feds Approve Funds for Rail Expansion at South Station

2011-10-06T16:58:00.003-04:00

The United States Department of Transportation recently approved $32.5 million in grant money to assist the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) in expanding and upgrading South Station.

I joined Congressman Mike Capuano and a number of my colleagues at the local and state levels in writing a formal letter to MassDOT Secretary Richard Davey both congratulating MassDOT on reaching this significant milestone towards expansion at South Station, and emphasizing our belief that this grant money should make any expansion of service that uses the Grand Junction railroad unnecessary. The full letter is available below:

Cambridge Responds to Proposed Hazmat Route Changes

2011-10-05T12:04:00.000-04:00

In August, I posted an update here about proposed hazardous materials truck route changes that could negatively impact the cities of Cambridge and Somerville. The City of Boston is seeking an officially recognized ban of all Non-Radioactive Hazardous Materials (NRHM) from the streets of downtown. While this move is designed to enhance the safety of those who live and work in downtown Boston, I am concerned that truck drivers will find it convenient or necessary to use some of the busiest streets in Cambridge as an alternative route. As it stands, the City of Cambridge would not have the legal authority to prohibit trucks carrying NRHM from its streets without going through the same federal process as Boston has.

In response to this, I submitted a policy order to the City Council requesting the city manager to examine the possible impacts of the proposed route changes, to confer with his staff in order to structure a ban similar to Boston's, and for the City to go on record in opposition to changes in routing that would result in more NRHM traveling through Cambridge.

To read the City of Cambridge's official response, please see the comment below that was submitted by City Manager Bob Healy:

Update: Washington Street and Somerville Ave Intersections

2011-09-29T17:14:00.000-04:00

In May, I joined several of my colleagues on a site visit to two intersections in Somerville that posed a possible safety hazard to pedestrians due to the layout of the crosswalks and condition of the markings. During the site visit, I discussed the concerns that I had and the concerns that residents had expressed about the intersections with officials from MassHighway. I have learned that MassHighway has developed initial plans to signalize the crossings, a step that would significantly improve pedestrian safety.

Because these improvements are still only in the initial planning stages, I will be continuing to use this space to provide updates on the project as new developments are communicated to me in the weeks and months to come.

Public Meetings for the Month of October

2011-09-29T15:16:00.001-04:00

Charles River Basin Connectivity Study

Three public meetings have been scheduled to discuss the Mass Department of Transportation and the Mass Department of Conservation and Recreation's Charles River Basin Connectivity study. This study is being carried out as a way for MassDOT to closely examine the various gaps that preclude a seamless connection across Charles River Basin bridges, their sidewalks, and adjacent intersections. The connectivity of the path system throughout the Charles River Reservation will also be studied. These meetings will serve as an opportunity for the public to hear from MassDOT's design consultant before the study is carried out. The focus of the presentation will be on an analysis of the existing conditions in the Charles River corridor that has already been carried out.

Meetings will be held at the following times and locations:

Tuesday, October 11, 6:30 to 8 PM, Shriners Hospitals for Children, 51 Blossom Street, Boston

Thursday, October 13, 6:30 to 8 PM, Community Rowing Boathouse, 20 Nonantum Road, Brighton

Tuesday, October 18, 2011, 6:30 to 8 PM, Morse School Auditorium, 40 Granite Street, Cambridge

Green Line Extension Environmental Assessment

A public meeting will be held to discuss the Environmental Assessment of the Green Line Extension and potential interim project offsets that will be required due to the delay in the extension's completion date. MassDOT will be taking suggestions for interim project offsets from the public, provided that suggestions conform to the following guidelines:

Proposed interim offset projects and measures have to be able to be in place by December 31, 2014.
Suggested projects or measures have to be within the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth, i.e., they cannot be private, local, or federal.
Quantifiable air quality benefits have to be associated with any potential interim offset project or measure.
Projects and measures that only reach their full potential once the GLX is in place are unlikely to work.
Proposed interim offset projects and measures are not required to be within the GLX corridor, but MassDOT understands the importance we put on this requirement. It is worth noting here that for the Fairmount Line Improvement Project delays, MassDOT chose projects within the Fairmount corridor only.

This meeting will be held on:

Thursday, October 20, 2011, 6 p.m. open house, 6:30 p.m. hearing, Somerville High School, 81 Highland Avenue, Somerville

Spotlight on Local Business: Modern Homebrew Emporium Customer Appreciation Day

2011-09-27T16:45:00.001-04:00

Modern Homebrew Emporium, Cambridge - map

On Saturday, September 10th, Modern Homebrew Emporium on Massachusetts Avenue held its customer appreciation day, inviting customers to brew beer outside the store and introducing many passersby to the growing hobby of homebrewing.

Home brewers brew beer under the watchful eye of the Cambridge Fire Department

Inside the store, customers browsed shelves stocked with malted barley, hops, and a wide range of equipment used to brew both beer and wine. Outside, owner Roger Savoy cooked hotdogs, burgers, and chicken wings for hungry brewers.

Savoy, who owns a total of three homebrew stores spread out across Massachusetts and New York, purchased the Modern Homebrew Emporium in the early 2000s. The store had previously been known as "Modern Brewer," and opened in 1990. The former owners attempted to turn the store into a microbrewery, a venture that they were, unfortunately, forced to end after a relatively brief period. While in operation as a brewery, Modern Brewer gained local notoriety for producing a beer known as "Fat Cat ESB", a bitter English-style ale. After Modern Brewer's brewing operation closed, Fat Cat was licensed to other area brewers. Famed beer critic Michael Jackson gave high praise to Fat Cat in a review published in 1998, calling it an "excellent example of the English style."

Tim with Modern Homebrew Emporium owner Roger Savoy

For those adventurous enough to try recreating Fat Cat, the Modern Homebrew Emporium has published the recipe in their Fall 2011 newsletter as a celebration of their 10th anniversary. Those adventurous enough to try to create their own "Fat Cat" can find the recipe here, and will certainly find the ingredients, equipment, and knowledgeable staff that they will need to brew it right here in Cambridge at the Modern Homebrew Emporium.

Mudflat Unveils New Studio

2011-09-14T11:04:00.000-04:00

81 Broadway, Somerville - map

The building that once housed the Broadway Theatre in East Somerville has seen quiet use as a warehouse since the theatre closed its doors in 1982. Now, after extensive renovations, the old theatre has become the new home to Mudflat Studio, a non-profit organization that offers studio space to artists and pottery classes to the community.

Mudflat, which has been in existence for 40 years now, had outgrown its old space at 149 Broadway. In 2002, it was selected by the City of Somerville, the then-owner of the old Broadway Theatre, to develop the building into a space for city artists. In 2005, Mudflat purchased the Boradway Theatre property from the city, and began the process of renovating it into their new studio.

Cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

The renovations, which were partially funded by a $300,000 grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Facilities Fund, have turned the theatre into a modern, spacious environment that is filled with natural light. High-capacity gas-powered kilns provide Mudflat with a greater ability to fire artists' clay, and new classroom, studio, and display space greatly enhance Mudflat's ability to teach and support artists.

Gas-fired kilns.

The new Mudflat Studio is spacious and well-lit..

On Saturday, September 10th, I joined Somerville Ward #1 Alderman Bill Roche and Alderman at-large Jack Connolly, Charles Coe from the Massachusetts Cultural Council, and Mudflat's Executive Director Lynn Gervens in the ceremonial ribbon cutting for the Grand Opening of the new Mudflat Studio. Mudflat's new space is truly welcoming and unique, and I strongly encourage anyone in the neighborhood or beyond to go and check it out. Mudflat offers a wide range of community programming for both adults and children, so if you have even the slightest interest in learning more about pottery, East Somerville is the place to be.

The Second Line Social Aid and Pleasure Society Brass Band provided music.

City of Cambridge Seeks Members for Police Review and Advisory Board

2011-09-07T16:08:00.003-04:00

The City of Cambridge is seeking members for its civilian Police Review and Advisory board, which is responsible for providing a means for citizen participation in the review of the policies of the Cambridge Police Department and the investigation of complaints. Please see below for more information about the board and how to apply:

The City of Cambridge is seeking residents interested in serving as members of the Police Review & Advisory Board. The Board generally meets on the last Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m.

The Police Review & Advisory Board was established by City Ordinance in 1984 to:

• Provide for citizen participation in reviewing Police Department policies, practices, and procedures;
• Provide a prompt, impartial, and fair investigation of complaints brought by individuals against members of the Cambridge Police Department; and
• Develop programs and strategies to promote positive police/community relations and provide opportunities for expanded discussions, improved understanding, and innovative ways of resolving differences.

The Board consists of five civilians who are representative of the City's racial, social, and economic composition. Board Members must: possess a reputation for fairness, integrity and responsibility; have demonstrated an active interest in public affairs and service; and be a resident of the City of Cambridge. For more information about the Board, see its web page at www.cambridgema.gov/prab.

Board Members serve as volunteers without compensation and assist in education and outreach to improve community confidence in city government in general, and to strengthen police/community relations.

A letter of interest with a brief résumé should be sent via e-mail, mail or fax by Friday, September 23, 2011 to:

Robert W. Healy, City Manager
City of Cambridge
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Ph. 617-349-4300
Fax 617-349-4307
E-mail: citymanager@cambridgema.gov

Grounding McGrath Study and Working Group

2011-09-07T14:50:00.000-04:00

Somerville High School Auditorium - map

A public informational meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 20th at 6:00 p.m. in the Somerville High School auditorium to discuss the future of the McGrath O'Brien Highway. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), which gained ownership of the Route 28 corridor as a part of the 2009 transportation reorganization law, has begun a conceptual planning study in partnership with the City of Somerville to consider the future use of the highway and the potential for the removal of its elevated sections.

There is an exciting opportunity here to participate in the planning of a Route 28 that offers greater access and promotes connectivity. Lowering McGrath would allow us the opportunity to take what is now a barrier that divides neighborhoods in East Somerville, and change it into a destination that unites neighbors instead. The future Green Line Extension also creates a significant opportunity to redesign McGrath into a space that is mindful of multi-modal transportation and serves to nourish local businesses.

I encourage you to attend this meeting if you have an interest in planning the future of this highway. Renovations to the McCarthy Overpass (which carries Rt 28 over Washington Street) will also be discussed, and there will be a question and answer session with MassDOT officials at the end of the meeting.

Should you require access or language accommodations, please contact Regan Checchio at rchecchio@reginavilla.com or 617-357-5772 x14.

Feast of Saints Cosmas and Damian

2011-08-31T13:27:00.000-04:00

Warren Street - map

The 85th annual feast of Saints Cosmas and Damian will be held on Warren Street on September 10th and 11th. Festivities will begin on Saturday at 2 p.m. with rides, music, games, and food. A candlelight procession will begin at 6:30 p.m. at 17 Porter Street, and there will be a healing service held at 7 p.m. There will be live music on Cambridge Street on Saturday night, including The Reminisants, Ayla Brown of American Idol fame, and Bobby Rydell.

Festivities on Sunday will begin with a procession at 8:30 a.m. to St. Francis of Assisi Church for a mass that will begin at 9:30 a.m. There will be a parade starting at 1 p.m., and more music and festivities Sunday evening.

This feast is a classic community event and one of the longest continuously running celebrations of its kind in New England. All are welcome and I hope to see you there!

For more information about the feast and a complete schedule, check out www.cosmas-and-damian.com.

Hearing to be Held on Monday to Discuss Developer Mitigation

2011-08-26T08:40:00.003-04:00

As the Co-Chair of the Government Rules and Operations Committee for the Cambridge City Council, I will be holding a hearing on Monday August 29th at 5:30pm in the Ackerman Room of City hall to discuss the appropriate way the City should determine mitigation derived from large building projects in the City of Cambridge.

Historically, mitigation from large building projects has been designed to directly benefit the neighborhoods that were being impacted by the project itself.  Over the last few decades, Kendall Square has developed at a rapid pace, often at the expense of open space opportunities to East Cambridge.  Mitigation balances the negative impacts of the projects with improvements to the neighborhood.  This practice has made possible the East Cambridge Scholarship Fund, Open Space Fund, and Outdoor Skating Rink. Recently, 2.5 acres of land were set aside for a new neighborhood park within East Cambridge.

I feel that it has become important to create guidelines that will maintain mitigation as something that benefits residents on the neighborhood level. While some have expressed a desire to see mitigation spread equally around the city for each project, I am firm in my belief that these funds should remain in the neighborhoods that have to deal with construction impacts, noise increases, and traffic impacts of development.  When large projects are built in Cambridge, the city residents already benefit as a whole.  Development contributes to our tax base and keeps residential tax rates the lowest in the state, it helps us maintain city services, and helps to fund city programs that most municipalities cannot even imagine offering.

The issue of neighborhood mitigation is a matter of fairness.  While we as a city benefit as a whole, those impacted by projects, those whose quality of life has been disrupted, and those who cannot get their views of the river back should be compensated to the best of the city’s ability, and the only way to do that is to be sure mitigation funds find their way back into the abutting neighborhoods.

Please come to the meeting on Monday to share your views with the City Council.  If you cannot make it please submit your comments to council@cambridgema.gov and request to be added to the record.

Hurricane Preparedness

2011-08-25T16:50:00.002-04:00

While there is still a great deal of uncertainty surrounding the precise track that Hurricane Irene will take as it nears the East Coast, now is the best time for New Englanders to begin preparing for the possibility of severe weather. With the storm still roughly four days away, there is plenty of time to safely and thoroughly prepare using the tips below from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Think about the supplies you will need for a basic emergency kit. These will include:

Water: one gallon per person per day for three days is the recommended quantity.
Food: three-day supply of non-perishable food.
Radio: battery powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio for receiving weather alerts, along with extra batteries for both.
Flashlight: make sure to have extra batteries for the flashlight as well.
First Aid Kit: your first aid kit should include two pairs of latex or sterile gloves, sterile wound dressings, a cleansing agent and antibiotic towelettes, burn ointment, adhesive bandages, eye wash solution, a thermometer, any medication prescribed to you and your family members that you take every day, such as insulin, heart medicine, and inhalers, as well as any prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood pressure monitoring equipment. Tweezers and scissors may also be helpful to have on hand.
Whistle: to signal for help.
Sanitation: moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties.
Can opener
A map
Cell phone: extra batteries and a solar or inverter charger should also be considered.

Other items to consider:

Prescription medications and glasses
Infant formula and diapers
Pet food and water for your pet
Cash and travelers checks
Important financial documents, insurance policies, passports and identification, immigration documents, and bank account records stored in a portable and waterproof container.
Emergency reference materials, such as a first aid manual
A sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Complete change of clothing including a long-sleeved shirt, pants, and sturdy shoes
Chlorine bleach and a medicine dropper. Add 16 drops of bleach to a gallon of water to create a disinfectant.
Matches in a waterproof container.
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene products
Mess kits and paper towels
Paper and pencils
Books, games, puzzles, and other activities for children

Should hurricane conditions be expected by the National Weather Service, prepare your home and property:

Take in bikes, lawn chairs, tables, and other items from yards and decks, as they could be picked up by strong gusts of wind.
Close all windows, doors, and storm shutters. If forecasts show that hurricane-force winds may strike the area, it is recommended that you cover windows with plywood.
Turn your refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings and keep them closed as much as possible to keep air cold in case the power goes out.
Make sure your car has a full tank of gas.

Please pay close attention to news and weather reports in the coming days. Staying informed is one of the best ways to be prepared and stay safe.

Route Changes May Bring More Hazardous Materials Through Cambridge and Somerville

2011-08-24T17:12:00.007-04:00

In 2009, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration directed the city of Boston to conduct a risk analysis of alternative Non-Radioactive Hazardous Materials (NRHM) transport routes through the city. The City of Boston has prepared an evaluation of trucking routes and has concluded that transportation of hazardous materials through the streets of downtown poses too great of a risk to public safety, and such materials should instead be taken around the downtown area through alternate routes.

Yesterday, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, which has been named as the routing authority on this issue, held the first of a series of four public meetings that will take place over the next two weeks to discuss the routing changes with the public. I am particularly concerned about how these routing changes will affect residents of Cambridge and Somerville. Because hazardous materials are prohibited from being transported in the I-93 tunnel, trucks must use surface roads to carry their cargos through Boston. If they are prohibited from using streets, however, they may opt to use a route that would take them through Cambridge and Somerville. Trucks travelling on I-93 would be routed around the tunnels using Washington Street, McGrath Highway, Land Boulevard, Binney Street, Main Street, Mass Ave, and Western Ave to reach I-90.


Map of one of the route alternatives being considered..

Trucks would use I-90 in combination with I-95 to transport hazardous materials through the Boston area.

I am disturbed by the possibility that large volumes of hazardous materials, including explosives, flammable liquids, and poisonous substances, will be transported through dense residential and commercial areas of Cambridge. The area around Binney Street will be built out extensively in the coming years, making the area even denser. The route’s proximity to MIT’s Nuclear Reactor and the requirement that trucks cross the Grand Junction train tracks are also cause for concern.

I hope to see any decision made about a designated route would be one that uses Route 128, which would keep hazardous materials in sparsely populated areas and out of dense urban neighborhoods. Unfortunately, there is not an enforcement mechanism readily available to keep trucks from cutting through Cambridge and Somerville, although they would indeed be ticketed by Boston Police were they to enter the streets of downtown. I will be exploring this issue in more detail in the coming weeks, and will be discussing solutions with my colleagues. Should you desire more information about changes in hazardous materials routing, I would encourage you to attend one of the remaining three meetings:

Quincy
Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Thomas Crane Public Library

40 Washington Street

Quincy, MA 02169

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Waltham

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Clark Government Center

Main Auditorium

119 School Street Waltham, MA 02451

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Stoneham
Thursday, September 1, 2011

Stoneham Town Hall Auditorium

35 Central Street,

Stoneham, MA 02180

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Reminder: Community Meeting Tonight at Police Station

2011-08-16T16:02:00.001-04:00

This is a friendly reminder that I will be hosting a community meeting along with the Cambridge Police tonight at the Healey Public Safety Building. There has been an increase in housebreaks in East Cambridge in recent weeks, and it is my hope that this meeting will serve to update residents on what is known and what is being done about the break-ins. Break-in prevention tips will also be discussed.

Please join us Tuesday, August 16th at 6 p.m. (tonight) in the first floor community room at the police station (125 6th Street).

For more information, please see this alert from the Cambridge Police.

East End House Summer Block Party this Wednesday

2011-08-15T16:29:00.000-04:00

The East End House will be holding its annual Summer Block Party on Wednesday, August 17th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This is a fun family event with barbecue, ice cream, face painting, games, live music, and more. The Block Party is a free community event and all are welcome. Hope to see you there!

The East End House is located at 105 Spring Street in East Cambridge.

Community Meeting to be Held to Discuss Increase in Housebreaks

2011-08-09T11:18:00.000-04:00

In light of the recent uptick in housebreaks in the East Cambridge area, I will be hosting a community meeting along with the Cambridge Police at the Healey Public Safety Building to discuss tips for preventing break-ins and to update residents with the latest information from CPD.

Please join us on Tuesday, August 16th at 6 p.m. in the first floor community room at the police station (125 6th Street).

For more information, please see last week's alert from the Cambridge Police.

Residents Petition State for Clear GLX Plan

2011-08-03T14:53:00.000-04:00

More than four hundred people have signed an online petition sponsored by the City of Somerville asking for a definitive plan for the Green Line Extension to be adopted. The recently-announced multi-year delay in the project, which will push back the estimated completion date as far as 2020, has increased the importance of obtaining a strong commitment from MassDOT, the MBTA, and the Governor about the future of the project.

If you are interested, please take a moment to sign the petition: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/greenline/

Multi-year Delays Expected in Green Line Extension Project

2011-08-02T12:40:00.002-04:00

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has announced that the Green Line Extension, which was trending towards completion in October of 2015, is now expected to be delayed until 2018 at the earliest, and possibly until as late as 2020. In its annual State Implementation Plan (SIP) Status Report, MassDOT has declared that it will formally petition the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, which oversees the Green Line Extension's implementation, for a delay.

This comes as very disappointing news. The Green Line Extension is both a federally mandated component of Massachusetts' State Implementation Plan for compliance with the Clean Air Act, and required mitigation for the effects of the Big Dig project. In order to bring the Massachusetts within compliance of the Clean Air Act, the Green Line Extension must be completed before December 31, 2014, or else the state will risk losing federal funding for any other transportation projects. Beyond being required by law, extending the MBTA Green Line through Cambridge, Somerville, and Medford is a key component of bringing long-overdue environmental justice to cities and its citizens.

MassDOT and the MBTA must now compile a list of reduction offset measures that will be implemented in order to mitigate the project's delay. These measures will be established through a process that includes public input, and it is my hope that they will bring a meaningful level of environmental justice to the communities that the Green Line Extension will serve while the project is delayed.

In response to these developments, I will be meeting with members of the Green Line legislative delegation, Mayor Curtatone, and officials from MassDOT and the Patrick administration with the goal of finding more information about precisely why the delay is necessary, and to discuss how this delay will impact various phases of the project, such as the relocation of Lechmere Station.

I will be sure to provide an update about what the next steps are as soon as possible. As always, I welcome your input in the comments section below.

Run and Ride Duathalon this Sunday at CambridgeSide

2011-07-26T14:11:00.000-04:00

Cambridge, MA - map

On Sunday, July 31, 2011 children ages 5 to 15 years will be running and biking as part of Run & Ride @ CambridgeSide duathlon event. Children who love to run and ride their bike are invited to compete in the second annual, kids only Cambridge duathlon taking place in and around CambridgeSide Galleria.

In February, Cambridge signed on to the First Lady’s Let’s Move! campaign, which aims to solve the problem of childhood obesity within a generation. Run & Ride at CambridgeSide promotes active health and fitness for children. This event is an innovative community collaboration between CambridgeSide Galleria, City of Cambridge, Cambridge Public Health Department, Cambridge Police Department, Cambridge Fire Department, baystateparent magazine and Endurance Coaching. The event features prizes, race t-shirts, giveaways, entertainment and fun for the whole family. The race is free for all participants.

A duathlon is an athletic event that consists of a running leg, followed by a cycling leg and then another running leg in a format bearing some resemblance to a traditional triathlon without the swimming. Although races will not be timed, this duathlon is a USAT sanctioned event. All abilities are welcome.

For more information, please email csginfo@nedevelopment.com or call 617.621.8668. CambridgeSide Galleria is currently accepting sponsor and vendor applications.

In-State Tuition Bill Receives Hearing

2011-07-21T10:57:00.000-04:00

State House, Boston - map

Yesterday, I joined a number of my colleagues and Governor Deval Patrick in testifying in support of a bill that would allow undocumented immigrants in Massachusetts to attend state colleges and universities at the in-state tuition rate. This bill, which is supported by Massachusetts universities, is designed to give those who were brought to the United States as children a better chance to attend college and further their education.

As is becoming all too clear, jobs that pay wages that allow one to pay for college and support a family are becoming increasingly scarce. This reality has generated a cycle of poverty in many communities in which the haves and have-nots are determined by their ability to pay for higher education for themselves and their children. Immigrant communities are especially susceptible to this cycle because of the additional barriers to higher education that come with undocumented status. The in-state tuition bill is designed to remove these barriers by affording undocumented children in Massachusetts the same status as their peers when they apply to state schools.

While some may oppose this bill on the basis of cost, Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, a non-partisan organization which tracks and analyzes state spending, has found that it will generate revenue for the state.

I think that one of the best things we can do in Massachusetts to honor our heritage of immigration is to support a new generation of immigrants as they try to make America their home, too. I was proud to see the Governor and many of my colleagues in the legislature stand up in support of this bill yesterday. I am looking forward to its passage.

Op-Ed: Grand Junction Proposal Bad for Cambridge and Somerville

2011-07-12T12:10:00.002-04:00

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has proposed a new transportation project that is drastic, unnecessary, and should it be implemented, will hurt the cities of Cambridge and Somerville.

The Grand Junction Railroad, an 8.5 mile-long stretch of rail that runs through Cambridgeport, Kendall Square, East Cambridge, and the Brickbottom area of Somerville, was purchased from CSX by MassDOT roughly one year ago. Just months after purchasing the track as a part of a much larger deal with CSX, MassDOT began studying a proposal that would bring as many as 24 Commuter Rail trains per day through Cambridge and Somerville, with the goal of allowing passengers to ride the Worcester line directly to and from North Station.

Grand Junction intersects six different roadways in Cambridge and Somerville at street-level: Mass Ave, Broadway, Main Street, Binney Street, Cambridge Street, and Medford Street. The rush-hour congestion on these streets will only be made worse when cars, bicycles, and pedestrians are forced to yield to rush-hour train traffic. Air quality will be degraded by idling cars and diesel exhaust from the trains themselves, and noise and vibrations will relentlessly bombard the thousands who live and work near the railroad.

MassDOT's proposal would also deal a major blow to those who wish to see Grand Junction become a useful space for our communities. Open space opportunities in Cambridge and Somerville are rare, and the Grand Junction Rail Trail concept offers a unique chance to connect residents to open space. A multi-use path would connect existing parks and public facilities throughout the corridor and act as an urban necklace, connecting densely populated neighborhoods to open space; however, instead of benefitting and building our communities, the state’s proposal would erode the quality of life in Cambridge and Somerville.

Beyond the impact to Cambridge and Somerville residents, the proposed project fails to fulfill any significant public need. The Worcester Line is currently operating within its capacity, and the 8% of riders along the line with a final destination near North Station can already easily access the area via the Orange Line from Back Bay Station.

While many residents have joined me in vocal opposition to this misguided proposal, some City Councillors have suggested that we are powerless to stop it from happening and that Cambridge should simply seek mitigation. This is naive and irresponsible. It is our duty as elected officials to do everything in our ability to fight on behalf of the people who we represent, and stepping aside to let this destructive proposal move forward unopposed would be an abandonment of that duty.

The history of another destructive transportation proposal illustrates the importance of unified community opposition and the potential dangers of inaction and defeatism.

In 1948, the Massachusetts Department of Public Works proposed the construction of I-695, better known as the Inner Belt Expressway. The Inner Belt was designed to route traffic around downtown Boston and alleviate congestion on the city’s maze of historic roadways, a popular solution in a time when highways seemed to spring up out of the ground like weeds.

In order to construct the Inner Belt, 7,000 residents of Somerville, Cambridge, Roxbury and the South End would have to be displaced. Those who were not forced to move from their homes and chose to remain would live in neighborhoods that were irreparably scarred and forever changed. Instead of being connected by a natural web of streets and sidewalks, friends, neighbors, and whole communities of people would be divided by a massive six-lane highway. The route of the Inner Belt would have effectively amputated East Cambridge from the rest of the city, and Area IV and Cambridgeport would have been torn in two. Elm Street and Brookline Street would have been entirely demolished.

When demolitions for the project began in the 1960s, however, a committed group of activists fought the project tooth and nail, and in 1971, after years of intense community protest, the Inner Belt project was officially cancelled.

Among those who formed neighborhood groups in response to the Inner Belt project were a group of young professionals who called themselves the “ad hoc committee on the Inner Belt.” Their philosophy was that because the project was “inevitable,” it would be in the city’s best interests to work with the state rather than outright oppose the project. Fortunately, the City Council of the day rejected this approach and opposed the Inner Belt. Yet we are left with a haunting question: what would have happened if they had adopted the ad hoc committee’s suggestions?

Like the Inner Belt before it, Grand Junction is a project that deserves united and unapologetic opposition. And like the Inner Belt before it, there are some who believe that we are powerless to stop this project from happening.

As a whole, the City Council has so far failed to articulate its opposition to MassDOT’s proposal with the same strength and clarity that the residents of Cambridge have. Some City Councillors have echoed the sentiment of the ad hoc committee of the 1960s, and would even go as far as to suggest that the city is better off begging for mitigation than putting up a real fight. This is the wrong approach to an idea that is as reckless and unneeded as a highway running through the heart of our city. MassDOT’s Grand Junction proposal will almost certainly erode the quality of life in our neighborhoods, and as a representative of those neighborhoods, I see little room for compromise.

Despite the rapid progress of MassDOT’s proposal over the past year, I am hopeful that the project can be stopped. If we are divided in our opposition, however, we will almost certainly fail. The lessons of the past have taught us that if we are to have any chance at changing the state’s mind about Grand Junction, Cambridge residents and elected officials must speak out against it in one voice.

Lechmere Station Design Workshop Tonight

2011-06-29T16:14:00.002-04:00

Kennedy Longfellow School, Cambridge - map

As a part of the Green Line Extension, Lechmere Station will be moved to the opposite side of Monsignor O'Brien Highway. Tonight at the Kennedy-Longfellow school, MassDOT officials will be on hand to discuss issues surrounding the design of the new Lechmere station. Its placement on the opposite side of the O'Brien highway raises a number of questions, including how best to configure pedestrian access to and from the station and East Cambridge, and what the future of the existing Lechmere station will be.

If you are interested in engaging in a dialogue with MassDOT and your neighbors about this important part of our community, please consider attending. I hope to see you there!

Time: 6-8pm, June 29th
Location: Kennedy-Longfellow School
158 Spring Street, Cambridge

Overnight Memorial Drive Lane Closures Starting June 26th

2011-06-24T12:08:00.000-04:00

Please be advised that the Massachusetts Department of Transportation will be beginning overnight work on the Magazine Beach pedestrian bridge replacement project starting June 26th. This work will require Memorial Drive to be closed to both eastbound and westbound traffic between Magazine Street and the rotary at the Reid Overpass between the hours of 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. Nightly closures will continue through June 30th.

Traffic traveling eastbound on Memorial Drive will be detoured at Magazine Street to Granite Street. Traffic traveling westbound on Memorial Drive will be detoured northbound onto Brookline Street and directed westerly to Putnam Avenue in order to access Magazine Street back to Memorial Drive. Please see the map below for the detour routes:

Bottle Bill Hearing to be Held July 20th

2011-06-08T16:17:00.000-04:00

State House, Boston - map

There is good news for the many of you that have called, emailed, and wrote to me in support of the updated Bottle Bill. The bill (H.890/S.1650) will be heard by the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy on Wednesday, July 20th at 10:00 a.m. in the Gardner Auditorium at the Massachusetts State House. This is a positive development for the future of this bill, and I believe that we will see a strong show of support for this common-sense legislation.

Any member of the public will be able to give oral or written testimony in support or opposition of the Bottle Bill at this hearing. If you have questions about this process, please contact my State House office at 617-722-2380 and my staff will assist you.

MassDevelopment Loans Boost Economic Development in Cambridge and Somerville

2011-06-08T15:39:00.000-04:00

MassDevelopment, a quasi-public agency tasked with stimulating development and eliminating barriers to economic growth within Massachusetts, has recently provided businesses in Cambridge and Somerville with multi-million dollar loans and a multi-million dollar lease in attempts to spur development and job growth.

In Cambridge, MassDevelopment has issued $343,485,000 in bonds on behalf of the Broad Institute which will be used to build and furnish a 250,000 square foot, 12 story building which will house both laboratory space and administrative offices. The new building will be built adjacent to the Broad Institute's existing building in Kendall Square.

In Somerville, MassDevelopment has provided a $3.5 million loan to the real estate affiliate of PSG Framing to purchase 130 Broadway and relocate to Somerville from South Boston.

MassDevelopment has also issued a $15 million lease on behalf of Hallmark Health Systems, a community-based non-profit providing health services to Boston's northern suburbs. Hallmark Health Systems will use the proceeds from the lease to purchase medical, surgical, and patient monitoring equipment, as well as computer equipment, furnishings, and renovations.

For more updates on economic growth and development efforts in Cambridge and Somerville, please check my community blog periodically. I feel that it is important to keep the community up to date on the ways in which public officials are shaping our neighborhoods, and I welcome your feedback.

Water Main Break Disrupts Water Supply for Cambridge Residents

2011-06-04T23:37:00.001-04:00

Cambridge officials are responding to a water main break that occurred near the intersection of Trowbridge Street and Broadway. Please seek an alternate route if you plan on travelling through this area as a large portion of Broadway between Ellery Street and Ware Street has been closed to traffic and pedestrians. The City of Cambridge is preparing to temporarily switch to the MWRA water supply to restore water to those who have seen their water supply disrupted.

Please stand by for more information.

City Seeking East Cambridge Transportation Study Participants

2011-06-02T12:01:00.000-04:00

Please take a moment to read the following information about the transportation study, and if possible, consider participating:

Dear Neighbor,

The City of Cambridge is conducting a research study to better understand the
transportation needs of its residents. We are currently surveying your neighborhood –
EAST CAMBRIDGE.

Your participation is completely voluntary, but we are hoping you will be willing to contact us because
the more feedback we have, the more confident we will be that the findings of the study are accurate and
representative for your neighborhood.

Please be assured that if you choose to participate in the study, which is being conducted over the telephone by professionally trained research interviewers from WB&A Market Research (www.WBandA.com), your responses will be completely confidential. The results will be analyzed for the neighborhood as a whole; no one will ever see your individual responses.

IF YOU ARE ABLE TO HELP WITH THIS PROJECT, please contact us at 1-800-593-1102 ext 119 and say that you are calling about the East Cambridge Survey.

Thank you in advance for your input and support of this important research study!

MassDOT to Hold Public Meeting to Discuss Grand Junction Feasibility Study

2011-06-01T14:06:00.000-04:00

Morse School, Cambridge - map

Please see the invitation below for information about an upcoming meeting to discuss MassDOT's Grand Junction Commuter Rail feasibility study:

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is pleased to invite all interested stakeholders to a community meeting to discuss progress on the Grand Junction Commuter Rail Feasibility Study.

This meeting will be held:

Thursday, June 16, 6:30pm-8:00pm

Morse School – Auditorium

40 Granite Street, Cambridge

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss an ongoing study of the potential use of the Grand Junction Railroad for supplemental MBTA Commuter Rail service to Cambridge and North Station.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts recently purchased Grand Junction Railroad from CSX Transportation in order to preserve this valuable corridor for transportation use. MassDOT is evaluating the feasibility, benefits, and impacts of running a branch of the Framingham/Worcester Commuter Rail line from Allston, through Cambridge and Somerville, to North Station in Boston.

At this meeting, MassDOT staff members will discuss existing and future conditions along the corridor, other proposed uses of the corridor (including a shared-use path and the Urban Ring), proposed alternatives to be evaluated, and environmental review. In the fall, MassDOT will hold a meeting in the community to present the results of the evaluated alternatives.

All are welcome at the meeting, and please feel free to share this notice. For more information, or to request alternative language or other special accommodation, please contact Matthew Ciborowski at matthew.ciborowski@state.ma.us, or (617) 973-7180.

Somerville Lawmakers Visit Troubled Intersections

2011-05-31T12:06:00.003-04:00

Somerville - map

On Friday, May 20^th, I joined legislators and staff, local officials, and MassHighway administrators and engineers for a visit to the pedestrian crossings at Washington St. and Medford St. and Somerville Ave. and Medford St. in Somerville. Among those in attendance were State Senator Pat Jehlen, Somerville Alderman Maryann Heuston, Jim Henry of State Senator Sal DiDomenico’s office, and Mike Lambert, director of Transportation and Infrastructure for the City of Somerville.

View Larger Map
An overhead view of the intersection at Washington Street and Medford Street

View Larger Map
The intersection at Somerville Ave and Medford St.

Local residents have expressed concerns about the safety of the pedestrian crossings at these intersections for a number of reasons. They are both long pedestrian crossings without signals, and the absence of “No Turn on Red” signs at both intersections could potentially increase the risk of pedestrians being injured by turning vehicles. These conditions combined with the higher speeds that traffic moves on these multi-lane streets make these crossings potentially dangerous, especially to elders and pedestrians walking with small children.

Sen. Jehlen and I at the Somerville Ave intersection.

MassHighway officials have committed to conducting an analysis of the two intersections in order to determine what kinds of changes should be made, and will present options for safety improvements to the City and the state delegation. I’m looking forward to seeing their recommendations, and I will be sure to use this space to provide updates on the progress of the improvements.

Memorial Day Travel Information from MassDOT

2011-05-26T15:56:00.003-04:00

I hope that everyone has a peaceful and safe memorial day, and that all will find time to take a moment to pause and reflect upon the sacrifice of those who have died in the service of their country.

If you will be traveling to spend time with friends and family, please take a moment to read this important information from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation about Memorial Day weekend travel:

MEMORIAL DAY TRAVEL

MassDOT encourages travelers to plan ahead as the Memorial Day holiday weekend approaches. Historically, the heaviest traffic occurs Thursday, Friday, and Monday afternoons and early evenings. Drivers should make travel plans accordingly and if possible avoid peak traffic volumes between 1pm and 7pm on those days.

Traffic is especially heavy at the I-84 interchange at Exit 9 in Sturbridge on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend and at Exit 11A, I-495, which handles cars headed south to Cape Cod and north to New Hampshire and Maine.

MassDOT will suspend all construction work on major arterial roadways from 12:00PM Noon on Friday, May 27 through the start of normal business on Tuesday, May 31.

We encourage commuters to use the MassDOT traffic resources that we have made available for safe and efficient commuting:

Before you travel, check the interactive live Traffic Cameras web page to view current traffic.
Sign up at the 511 Traveler Information Service to receive personalized travel information alerts via email, text or telephone. MassDOT as always reminds drivers to avoid using cell phones while driving. Call into the 511 service before departing.
A reminder that the Massachusetts Safe Driving Law took effect in September 2010, banning texting while driving and cell phone use while driving by 16 and 17 year old drivers. Drivers are reminded to travel safely and avoid distracted driving such as using cell phones. Check out the USDOT Distracted Driving page for tips and news.
To save time, money and gas, motorists who have not yet done so are encouraged to join FAST LANE to avoid waiting in line at cash toll booths.

FREE COFFEE will be served at the 18 MassDOT service plazas from 10 pm Monday night through 5 am Tuesday morning.

In addition, the annual Farmer's Market program is back in full swing. For the Memorial Day weekend, Farmer's Markets will be open during daytime hours at the following days and locations:

Plymouth Route 3- Friday, 3pm-6pm
I-90 Framingham- Friday, Saturday & Sunday, Monday, 9am-6pm
I-90 Charlton West- Friday, Saturday & Sunday, Monday 9am-6pm
I-90 Charlton East- Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 9am-4pm

East Cambridge Cleanup Day this Saturday

2011-05-19T13:24:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, May 21st, join your friends and neighbors for a morning of Spring Cleaning!

Volunteers will be cleaning up the tree wells along Cambridge Street in anticipation of East Cambridge In Bloom. Join us afterwards for some lunch and refreshments at Pug's Bar and Grill.

Those who wish to volunteer should plan to meet at 9:30 am at one of two places:

Silva Park

The Bocce Courts

Red Line Single Person Operation Meeting in Cambridge

2011-05-17T16:30:00.000-04:00

Cambridge Senior Center - map

The MBTA will be holding a meeting in Cambridge at the end of this month to discuss the expansion of Single Person Train Operation (SPTO) to the Red Line. SPTO requires the train operator to perform the functions that were once shared with the train attendant, including announcements and door operation.

SPTO comes with a recommendation from the Federal Transit Administration, and the MBTA has stated that it will use the cost savings obtained through the program to increase service and alleviate overcrowding.

I would encourage all who are interested in this issue, or have questions or concerns about its implementation, to attend the upcoming meeting.

Location and time:

Tuesday, May 31st at 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m
Cambridge Senior Center
806 Mass Ave
Cambridge, MA 02139

The Senior Center is accessible to persons with disabilities, and a sign language interpreter will be available upon request (send me an email and I would be happy to coordinate this with the MBTA).

Crime Prevention Meeting

2011-05-17T16:21:00.003-04:00

East End House, East Cambridge - map

The Cambridge Police Department will hold a crime prevention meeting Wednesday, May 18, at 7 p.m. in the East End House at 105 Spring St.

Sergeants Maureen Ford and Edward Frammartino will share information about recent crimes and crime prevention efforts. Strategies and trends will be discussed.

Lechmere Green Line Service to be Replaced with Shuttle Buses

2011-04-25T16:05:00.000-04:00

Lechmere Station, Cambridge - map

On Saturday, April 30^th, the Science Park Green Line station will be closing so that an extensive rehabilitation of the station can be completed. The station will be closed to train service during the six month period that the renovations will require. During this time, service between Lechmere and North Station will be replaced with bus service.

During this period, buses will leave Lechmere and North Station every 4 minutes during peak hours and special events at the TD Bank Garden, every 10 minutes during off-peak day hours, and every 12-15 minutes during night hours. At Lechmere, the pattern of bus traffic through the station will be reversed, with Green Line shuttle buses entering the station on the passenger entrance side from Cambridge Street in the direction of Harvard Square. Bus service for the 69, 80, 87, and 88 routes will enter the station in the opposite direction (from McGrath in the Boston-bound direction), but will board in the normal location. Service for these buses will be unaffected. Green Line shuttle routes may be altered during the Fourth of July, but the exact details of any route changes are not yet known.

Map of shuttle service. Source: MBTA

This project is important for a number of reasons. The station improvements that will be undertaken will make Science Park fully accessible and compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Two new elevators will be constructed to bring customers from street level to the platform, the platform itself will be widened, and the interior stairs will be completely replaced. The platform canopy roofs will be completely replaced, two new paid entrance lobbies will be constructed, and various upgrades to lighting, signage, and landscaping will also be performed.

The MBTA has cited multiple reasons for closing the station during construction. It has been determined that the safest way to complete the improvements will be to close the station during the majority of the construction work. Were the station to remain open, construction would require a temporary pedestrian track crossing to be used while one station entrance would be closed, and platforms would need to be narrowed and remain uncovered. Closing the station allows the work to be completed with minimal risk to the public.

In addition to enhancing safety, the station closure will allow the work to be sped up significantly. The project will be completed six months earlier than it would be were the station to remain open, allowing the delivery of fully accessible platforms to be accelerated significantly. The station closure will also allow demolition required by the project will to be performed during the day, mitigating the noise problems that would have been created by night time demolition.


The proposed South Elevation showing elevator, lobby, stair, and canopy improvements.

While I expect that work on Science Park will be completed efficiently, safely, and without incident, I also recognize that the closure of Lechmere station to train service could negatively impact commuters who ride the Green Line each day. I am here first and foremost to represent the concerns of the residents of East Cambridge and East Somerville, and I encourage you to contact me should you have any comments, questions, or concerns during the course of this project.

Craigie Drawbridge to Reopen April 26th

2011-04-20T11:32:00.004-04:00

On April 26th, 2011 at 7:00 a.m., the Craigie Drawbridge, which carries McGrath O’Brien Highway (Route 28) between Land Blvd. in Cambridge and Leverett Circle in Boston, will be reopened to traffic inbound to Boston, and all marine traffic.

This reopening marks the completion of an extensive bridge rehabilitation, and the beginning of the final phase of the project, which will consist of streetscape work and landscaping in the area surrounding the bridge. As this work is completed, there will be some lane restrictions during off-peak hours in the vicinity of the bridge, but the bridge itself will remain open to traffic in both directions.This phase of the project will be completed by August of 2011.

I am pleased to see that the contractor conducting the bridge repair will be completing the work on schedule, and I am looking forward to the bridge reopening. The community work done by MassDOT in preparation for this project, as well as the numerous police details in the area to direct traffic, have made this project one that has, despite all odds, gone extremely smoothly.

As always, if you have any comments or questions about this issue or any others, please feel free to contact me via email or to leave a comment here at the blog.

Salad Bar Opens at Winter Hill Community School Cafeteria

2011-04-12T14:44:00.002-04:00

Winter Hill Community School, Somerville - map

On Thursday, April 7th, I attended the ribbon cutting for the Winter Hill Community School's new cafeteria salad bar. The salad bar, donated through a grant program funded by Whole Foods Market, is part of an ongoing effort to increase student access to healthy foods and encourage healthy food choices at public schools.

Among the attendees were Ward 4 School Committee Member Christine Theberge Rafal and Somerville School Superintendent Tony Pierantozzi.

The salad bar will go a long way towards broadening the choices offered by the school cafeteria, and will offer a new and exciting option for students to take advantage of at lunch time.

Advocates Raise Stroke Awareness at State House

2011-04-01T13:03:00.000-04:00

State House, Boston - map

Yesterday, March 31st, stroke survivors, their families, and stroke-prevention advocates from across Massachusetts gathered at the State House to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of stroke, and to advocate for funding of programs that work to educate medical professionals about stroke treatment and prevention.

Rep. Garry and Sen. Montigny speak to a gathering of stroke-prevention and treatment advocates in the Senate Press Room at the State House.

At a gathering in the Senate press room, two of my colleagues, Representative Colleen Garry of Dracut and Senator Mark Montigny of New Bedford, shared how they have experienced their own loved ones falling victim to strokes. They expressed optimism about the level of awareness that the public has of stroke symptoms, but both stressed that we can do better as a state by ensuring that EMTs and hospital staff are properly trained and educated.

Please take this as an opportunity to remind yourself of the symptoms of stroke:

Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

If you are experiencing these symptoms, or if you notice someone who is exhibiting these symptoms, please seek medical attention as they could be signs of stroke. The American Heart Association recommends that after seeking medical attention, you check and note the time at which the symptoms appeared. Time is critical in the treatment of stroke, and the administration of a clot-busting drug called tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) can significantly reduce long term symptoms and disability if given within 3 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Part of the funding that Rep. Garry and Sen. Montigny were advocating for goes to a program that helps educate EMTs about which emergency rooms have stroke teams that administer tPA. This program is key to ensuring that patients are transported to hospitals where they receive the most effective and timely treatment.

For more information about stroke, its symptoms, and its prevention, please visit the Amercan Heart Association's webpage.

Somerville Street Sweeping to Begin April 1st

2011-03-30T16:21:00.002-04:00

Like Cambridge, the city of Somerville will begin street sweeping on Friday, April 1st. As always, please pay careful attention to posted signage. Somerville residents may also call 311 for more information about street sweeping.

For a schedule of street sweeping on your street, and to sign-up for email alerts, visit Boston.com's Boston Sweeper webpage.

Thousands in Cambridge and Somerville can Claim Abandoned Property

2011-03-29T14:35:00.000-04:00

The Massachusetts State Treasurer may be holding property that belongs to you, and you might not even know it!

In accordance with Massachusetts’ abandoned property law, the treasurer’s office takes possession of financial assets after a period of extended inactivity. If the asset holder is unable to contact the owner for a period of three years, the property becomes “abandoned” and falls under the protection of the Treasurer until it can be returned. These assets include cash, savings and checking accounts, uncashed checks, insurance policy proceeds, stocks, dividends, and contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes.

Massachusetts Treasurer Steve Grossman has launched an aggressive campaign to return the estimated $1.8 billion that is owed to over 40,000 individuals, businesses, and charities.

In Cambridge and Somerville, there are more than 2,000 last known addresses of individuals, businesses, and estates that have $500 or more in abandoned property that they can claim. The Treasurer’s office wants to return this property to its rightful owners, and is working overtime in order to do so.

In order to search the abandoned property database, visit the Abandoned Property Division website at: www.findmassmoney.org.

Street Cleaning to Resume in Cambridge on April 1st

2011-03-29T14:30:00.002-04:00

Cambridge - map

This is a friendly reminder that the Cambridge Department of Public Works will begin the first street cleaning of the Spring on Friday, April 1st. The cleaning on Friday will be done on streets in District C (the Cambridgeport area), but most residents can expect to see their streets cleaned in the coming weeks.

For more detailed information and a complete schedule and district map, please visit the Department of Public Works' webpage. Street cleaning schedules are also marked on street signs posted throughout the city.

A street sweeper in Cambridge. Image credit: Joseph Barillari

Budget Forum to be Held April 12

2011-03-29T13:03:00.002-04:00

Brooks School, Medford - map

State Senator Pat Jehlen will be sponsoring a forum on the Massachusetts Budget on Tuesday, April 12. The forum will be dedicated to discussing the problems facing this year's budget, and their potential solutions.

Noah Berger, president of Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget), will be on hand to explain the state's budget shortfall, its causes, and potential remedies. As President of MassBudget, Mr. Berger leads a group that is dedicated to providing the public with clear and in-depth analysis of Massachusetts' budget policies.

Thomas A. Kochan, Co–Director of the Institute for Work and Employment Research at MIT Sloan School of Management, will also be at the forum to discuss labor issues. Comparisons of the wages and benefits public and private sector employees receive have been commonplace in the media in recent weeks, and this is a great opportunity to get the facts about labor in Massachusetts.

There will also be time for questions and discussion following the presentation. I strongly suggest that anyone who has an interest in the budget should attend, as the issues that will be discussed are of vital importance to the short-term and long-term well-being of our state. Most of us know that the fiscal climate in Massachusetts is a tough one at the moment, but this forum is an excellent opportunity to learn about precisely what is at stake.

The forum will begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Brooks School, 388 High Street, Medford. There will be refreshments served at 6:45 p.m.

Longfellow Bridge Information Meeting April 11th

2011-03-25T17:18:00.010-04:00

Shriners Hospital Auditorium, Boston - map

A public information meeting is being held to inform residents about upcoming work that will be done to restore and renovate the Longfellow Bridge. If you have concerns or questions about how this project will affect your commute, or if you just want to learn more about the plans, please attend!

Image credit: Larry Strong

Please read the invite below for more information:

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation

Invites you to a

Public Information Meeting
for the
Longfellow Bridge Rehabilitation Project

Monday, April 11, 2011
6:30‐8:30 PM
Shriners Hospitals for Children, Auditorium
51 Blossom Street, Boston, MA

The purpose of this meeting is to provide a quarterly project update on the Longfellow Bridge Rehabilitation Project. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has undertaken this major project to restore and rehabilitate the historic Longfellow Bridge, which crosses the Charles River between Cambridge and Boston. Following the presentation, MassDOT staff will lead a discussion to gather public comments and answer questions.

MassDOT worked with the Longfellow Bridge Rehabilitation Task Force in 2010 to ensure stakeholders were given an equal opportunity to comment on the approach and roadway cross‐section being evaluated, with particular focus on serving transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian needs effectively and safely. The Task Force concluded by submitting recommendations to MassDOT for consideration during the environmental review and design process.

The next step in the environmental review process will be for MassDOT to submit an Environmental Assessment (EA) to Federal Highway this spring. The EA will provide an analysis of project alternatives, including those recommended by the Task Force. Other key environmental reviews underway include Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and review of parkland impacts under Section 4(f), with Federal Highway as the lead agency.

If you have questions or would like more information about the project, please contact Mike O’Dowd, MassDOT Project Manager, at 617‐973‐7475. To be added to the project distribution list, please contact Stephanie Boundy, Accelerated Bridge Program Public Outreach Coordinator, at 617‐973‐8049 or stephanie.boundy@state.ma.us. The Shriners Hospital Auditorium is accessible.

Residents Speak Out about Grand Junction

2011-03-23T14:36:00.002-04:00

As many of you know, the state’s potential expansion of commuter rail service from Worcester to North Station via the Grand Junction Railroad has raised a large amount of concern in our community. I share many of the same worries that my neighbors have expressed about the potential impact of more trains coming through East Cambridge and East Somerville. While it appears that expanded use of the Grand Junction Railroad could bring additional noise, pollution, traffic, and safety problems with it, it is not clear whether the proposed expansion would bring any added benefit to the community.

With that said, I am very pleased to see that so many members of our neighborhood have spoken out about this. It sends a strong message that the residents of Cambridge and Somerville are engaged, informed, and ready to take a stand on the important issues that will directly effect their community and quality of life.

Image credit: Mike Goralski (C)2007

Two East Cambridge residents, Jai Chawla and Peter Zaroulis, have developed web-based software that they have used to create an online petition for residents to sign, comment on, and view. The petition can be accessed at petition.paperwork.pro.

In addition to Jai and Peter’s electronic petition, residents have collected dozens signatures from their neighbors on old-fashioned paper petitions, have written letters, made phone calls, and attended meetings. Thank you to everyone who has reached out with your concerns and ideas about this issue in any way.

Representing the interests of East Cambridge and East Somerville residents in this process is a top priority of mine, and I have been in close contact with senior Department of Transportation officials since the State’s initial purchase of Grand Junction. Please don't hesitate to get in touch with me or my office (617-722-2380) if you wish to voice your concerns about this project, or if you have questions that you would like answered.

Constituent Tours at the State Library

2011-03-22T15:45:00.001-04:00

State House, Boston - map

Are you interested in the history of your city? Do you want to learn more about the Commonwealth of Massachusetts? Come and experience the rich history that the State Library and its archives have to offer. The State Library is once again inviting the general public to come and tour its extensive collection. This may be of special interest to anyone who is looking to arrange a tour for a school group with a desire to learn more about the history of the area.

Anyone who would like to set up a tour can contact Pamela Schofield at pamela.schofield [AT] state.ma.us or call 617-727-2590. You can also contact the reference department directly using the above number or by e-mailing reference.department [AT] state.ma.us

Key Green Line Extension Deal Reached

2011-03-16T17:07:00.003-04:00

Somerville/Cambridge – Map

There have been some important new developments this month in the path to constructing the Green Line Extension.

Earlier this month, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation approved a landmark deal between the MBTA and Pan Am Railways that sets the stage for the construction of the Green Line Extension. This agreement brings the track, right of way, and other land that the MBTA will need to complete the Green Line Extension under its control.

The Green Line Extension will provide public transit to chronically under served areas.

Perhaps most importantly, this agreement will enable the MBTA to construct the planned new Lechmere Station. While I have been slightly apprehensive about plans to move Lechmere station to the other side of the O’Brien Highway, this is an important and necessary step in the process of constructing the Green Line Extension. It has been a priority of the MBTA, MassDOT, community groups and state and local officials to ensure that final plans for the station will include robust pedestrian safety protections. I am certain that all parties will be able to work together effectively to agree upon a plan that is not only very safe, but something that East Cambridge can be proud of.

MassDOT and the MBTA are to be commended for also extracting a significant cost savings for the overall project through the deal with Pan Am. While the state had originally planned to pay around $18 million for the railroad track and property rights, it ended up making the deal with Pan Am for $5.5 million less. While not a part of the land agreement, Pan Am has also agreed to take on the cost of improving the streets and sidewalks around the Lechmere area, saving Massachusetts an estimated $9 million.

I am pleased to see the MBTA and MassDOT making steady progress on the Green Line Extension. The vision of a safe, efficient, and clean means of public transportation running through East Cambridge, Somerville, and Medford is something that many, many people have devoted a great amount of time, energy, and hard work to. The agreement with Pan Am is a strong step forward on the path to making this vision a reality, and I am looking forward to working with transportation officials to make sure our collective efforts stay on track.

I will be continuing to update this blog with information about the Green Line Extension and other transportation-related news, so stay tuned!

Celebrating Dr. Seuss's Birthday at ESCS

2011-03-09T14:40:00.003-05:00

East Somerville Community School, Somerville - Map

For Ms. Morales's third grade class, Friday, March 4th was a chance to honor the birthday of Dr. Seuss and the legacy that he has left for generations of children to cherish.

To celebrate, we read The Sneetches and Other Stories, a collection of tales with simple messages of compromise, respect, and fairness.

Dr. Seuss's rhymes demand the reader's full attention!

They were a great group!

Brickbottom Residents Discuss Grand Junction

2011-01-11T16:00:00.001-05:00

Brickbottom Artists Association, Somerville - map

On Wednesday, December 15th, Massachusetts Department of Transportation officials hosted a meeting at the Brickbottom Artist Building to discuss the state’s recent purchase of the Grand Junction tract of railroad. The meeting, which was well attended by residents of the Brickbottom Artist Building and the surrounding community, served as a forum for residents to voice their concerns about potential increases in usage of the Grand Junction Railroad by MBTA Commuter Rail trains.

For those not familiar, Grand Junction Railroad is an 8.5 mile long stretch of rail that runs from Boston, over the Charles via a rail bridge that runs under the BU Bridge, through MIT’s campus to East Cambridge, East Somerville, Chelsea, and finally East Boston. Along this route, trains make a number of crossings at street level, including crossings at Mass Ave, Main Street, Broadway, Cambridge Street, and Medford Street. Prior to its purchase by the State this summer, it was owned by CSX Transportation. Grand Junction is currently used by freight trains servicing the Chelsea Produce Market, and by trains being transferred for maintenance by the MBTA and Amtrak.

Jamey Tesler of MassDOT answers questions

The state’s purchase of Grand Junction Railroad opens up the possibility of the line being used for proposed commuter rail service between North Station and Worcester. I share the concerns that many members of our community have expressed about the impact increased rail traffic could have for East Cambridge and East Somerville, and I cannot support any project that will have drastic negative impacts for my constituents. I see potential safety, environmental, and quality of life issues arising from this proposal, and it is very important to me that these concerns are addressed before the future of this project is discussed any further.

With any public transportation project, our number one concern should always be safety. Although I strongly believe that the Massachusetts Department of Transportation is committed to the safety of drivers, pedestrians, passengers, and employees in the planning, construction, and maintenance of all of its projects, I am nevertheless concerned about trains moving at faster speeds through Cambridge and Somerville while using Grand Junction Railroad. In anticipation of increased rail traffic on Grand Junction, improvements will be made to the tracks and intersections that will permit trains to travel at increased speeds. I believe that this will create an increased risk to pedestrians and motorists at the busy Cambridge Street and Broadway rail crossings.

Grand Junction crosses under the BU Bridge

Additionally, I am concerned that expanded use of the Grand Junction Railroad will bring new problems to densely populated areas in Cambridge and Somerville. Train noise, reduced air quality from diesel train engines, and increased congestion at crossings all negatively impact the quality of life for residents of the surrounding neighborhoods. Should MassDOT move forward with this proposal, I believe that an environmental review should be undertaken to ensure that quality of life impacts are mitigated and that the well-being of our neighborhoods and our environment are protected. Residents should have a chance to comment about what kind of projects are undertaken in their communities, and I believe that environmental review offers a necessary opportunity for the public to have a voice in the planning of public projects.

My staff and I are closely monitoring this project, and I have been in touch with both senior administration officials to discuss my concerns about using the Grand Junction Railroad to expand commuter rail service. The meeting on December 15th was one of a series of meetings that will be held regarding Grand Junction, so please check back for the dates of upcoming events. The next meeting about Grand Junction will be held by the East Cambridge Planning Team at East End House on Wednesday, January 19th at 7:30 PM.

I invite you to contact my office if you have comments or questions about this issue by phone (617-722-2380) or by email (timothy DOT toomey AT mahouse DOT gov). I am committed to making your voice heard at what is a pivotal time for this project’s future.

Craigie Drawbridge Will Close Again on Saturday, January 8th

2011-01-04T13:51:00.001-05:00

The Craigie Bridge is set to close to inbound traffic again, this time for four months. This means that from Saturday, January 8th until April, traffic from Cambridge bound for Boston will need to find an alternate route. Traffic outbound from Boston into Cambridge, however, will still be able to cross the bridge, as two lanes are open in that direction.

The closure is required for the installation of a new, pre-fabricated bridge to replace the old one. This closure will encompass the final phase of work on the Craigie Bridge.

View Larger Map

More information from MassDOT:

Vehicular Detours
Effective January 8, 2011, MassDOT will close all inbound travel lanes on Route 28 southbound at the intersection of Land Boulevard for approximately 12 weeks as part of the Craigie Drawbridge Rehabilitation Project. Traffic trying to access I-93 and Storrow Drive will be detoured east over the Gilmore (Prison Point) Bridge towards Bunker Hill Community College/City Square. Traffic heading to I-93 Northbound will be directed left through Sullivan Square, while traffic trying to access I-93 Southbound and Route 1 via the Tobin Bridge will be directed to turn right. Traffic traveling to the Charles Circle Area will be detoured westbound down Land Boulevard to the Longfellow Bridge to cross the Charles River. Outbound traffic leaving Boston through Leverett Circle will be unaffected during this period. (see Detour Map)

Access to the Museum of Science will not be restricted but patrons are advised to approach the Museum from Boston to avoid anticipated traffic congestion on the Cambridge side of the project.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Access during Construction
Bike and pedestrian access in each direction will be maintained during construction.

Charles River Channel
As a result of the construction activities, the Charles River Channel will be closed to all marine traffic reopening no later than April 27, 2010.

For more information, visit MassDOT's project webpage, or contact my office at 617-722-2380.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-23T16:59:00.001-05:00

As we give thanks for the blessings of family, friends, and a meal to share with them, we must also remember the least fortunate among us this Thanksgiving.

Area soup kitchens and food pantries are always in need of food, volunteers, and monetary support. If you are able to help, please consider contacting a food pantry or soup kitchen in your neighborhood.

Food pantries in Cambridge:

(Please call food pantries before visiting, as their hours vary significantly)

Cambridge Senior Center
806 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-349-6060

Cambridgeport Baptist Church
Food Pantry/Clothes Closet
459 Putnam Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-576-6779

CEOC Food Pantry
11 Inman Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-868-2900

Common Care / St. Peter's Episcopal Church
838 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
617-547-7788

East End House
105 Spring Street
Cambridge, MA 02140
617-876-4444
Information about the East End House turkey basket giveaway

Helping Hand Food Pantry
St. James’s Episcopal Church
1991 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02140
617-876-4381

Margaret Fuller House Food Pantry
71 Cherry Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-547-4680

Project Manna
Massachusetts Avenue Baptist Church
146 Hampshire Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-868-4853

St. Paul A.M.E. Food Pantry
85 Bishop Allen Drive
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-661-1110

Salvation Army
402 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-547-3400

Western Avenue Baptist Church
299 Western Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-441-6959

Zinberg Clinic Pantry
The Cambridge Hospital
1493 Cambridge Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-665-1606

Food pantries and soup kitchens in Somerville:

Hearty Meals For All (HMFA)
Somerville Community Baptist Church
31 College AvenueSomerville, Ma 02144
917-826-5298

Project Soup:
Saint Benedict’s Church
(rear basement)
15 Franklin Street
East Somerville, MA 02145

West Pantry
1 Davis Square
Mon - Fri 9:00 - 5:00 PM

Community Suppers
First Congregational Church of
Somerville
89 College Avenue, Davis Square
Monday - Beginning at 5:00 PM

Dollar-A-Bag
Saint Benedict’s (rear basement)
15 Franklin Street
East Somerville, MA 02145

Somerville Cambridge Elder Services
61 Medford St. Somerville, Ma 02143
617-628-2601
617-6281705-TDD

I hope that you are able to spend this Thanksgiving in the company of your loved ones, and that you are blessed with a happy and safe holiday.

All the best,

Tim

ECBA Celebrates One Year Anniversary

2010-11-18T16:42:00.001-05:00

The East Cambridge Business Association is an exciting, young organization that is designed to unite and strengthen local businesses, while giving them new opportunities to engage the East Cambridge community and give back to their neighborhood. On November 9th, I had the opportunity to attend the ECBA's one year anniversary celebration, and will hopefully have the opportunity to attend many more!

The following is an East Cambridge Business Association press release that was published on the Cambridge Chronicle website on November 12:

On Tuesday, Nov. 9, members and guests of the East Cambridge Business Association gathered at the Multicultural Arts Center to celebrate the organization’s one-year anniversary at its annual meeting.

Association president Carl Fantasia of New Deal Fish Market delivered the presidential report highlighting the many accomplishments the ECBA has made during its first year. An impressive list of community building events such as outdoor movie nights, Cambridge Street clean-ups and “East Cambridge In Bloom,” the ECBA has spent its first year focusing on making visible impacts in East Cambridge and uniting residents, business, and the city together.

Deputy City Manager Richard Rossi and State Representative and City Councilor Tim Toomey commended the ECBA for being able to bring the community together and make positive impacts in the neighborhood.

“The Rib Fest was a unique event that brought long-time residents and new residents together, and people are still talking about it” said Toomey.

Andy Montone of Cambridge Art and Frame highlighted the ECBA’s plans to improve on these events in the coming year and encouraged everyone become more involved in 2011. “We have accomplished a lot in the first year with a relatively small group of people, if we all get involved, the sky is the limit”.

Before the closing of the meeting, Teodora Silva of Alegria Dental Group, presented “The Smoke This Rib Fest” trophy to Chris Kosinski of East Side Bar and Grille, who is also the vice president of East Cambridge Business Association. As part of the award, the ECBA made a donation on Chris’s behalf to the East Cambridge Scholarship Fund for wining the Rib Fest in its first year.

Tim presents ECBA President Carl Fantasia with a citation in recognition of the one year anniversary of the ECBA's founding.

Your Craigie Comments

2010-11-18T16:07:00.001-05:00

Now that we are more than a week and a half into the first phase of Craigie Drawbridge construction and repairs, I'd like to use this space to encourage you to post your comments, questions, suggestions, and concerns about how the project is going, and what could be done better. Because this is an ongoing project and will require the bridge to be closed to traffic inbound to Boston for 15 weeks, we have the opportunity to change things that aren't working.

Please feel free to leave a comment to this post with your ideas, or as always, call my office at 617-722-2380.

Reminder: Craigie Drawbridge Closes to Boston-bound Traffic Tomorrow

2010-11-05T13:05:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow, November 6th, will mark the first day that the Craigie Drawbridge will be closed to traffic bound for Boston from Cambridge. I strongly suggest planning your commute in advance, as there will be significant delays and heavy traffic in the area, especially as drivers become accustomed to the altered traffic patterns in the first days of the bridge closing.

Detour information from MassDOT:

Vehicular Detours
Effective November 6, 2010, MassDOT will close all inbound travel lanes on Route 28 southbound at the intersection of Land Boulevard as part of the Craigie Drawbridge Rehabilitation Project. Outbound traffic leaving Boston through Leverett Circle will be unaffected during this period.

Traffic trying to access I-93 and Storrow Drive will be detoured east over the Gilmore (Prison Point) Bridge towards Bunker Hill Community College/City Square. Traffic heading to I-93 Northbound will be directed left through Sullivan Square, while traffic trying to access I-93 Southbound and Route 1 (Tobin Bridge) will be directed to turn right.(see attached map) Traffic traveling to the Charles Circle Area will be detoured westbound down Land Boulevard to the Longfellow Bridge to cross the Charles River. (see attached map)

Access to the Museum of Science will not be restricted but patrons are advised to approach the Museum from Boston to avoid anticipated traffic congestion on the Cambridge side of the project.

Bike and Pedestrian Access during Construction
Full bike and pedestrian access in each direction will be maintained during construction. During Phases 1 and 3 of the drawbridge replacement, only one side of the bridge will be opened and must be shared by inbound and outbound bike and pedestrian traffic. A manned and signalized crossing area will be placed at the mid-point of the roadway at the Museum of Science during these phases.

For more information about this project, click here to read my previous blog posts, or visit the MassDOT Accelerated Bridge Program website here.

Election Day is Tomorrow, November 2nd

2010-11-01T15:52:00.006-04:00

November 2nd is election day! Tomorrow, voters will choose who will serve as the state's governor for the next four years. In addition to the hotly contested governor's race, voters will decide who will serve terms in the rest of the state's constitutional offices, and will have the option of approving or rejecting three ballot initiatives.

If you are unsure of where to vote, or if you would like a preview of the ballot that you will receive at the polls, you can visit the Secretary of the Commonwealth's election information page here. If you have trouble with the site, you may call the state elections office at 617-727-2828.

The voter registration deadline for tomorrow's election has passed, but if you would like to register so that you may vote in future elections, please click here for information on how to do so.

Remember, in Massachusetts the cutoff for registration is 20 days before an election, so plan ahead!

For additional information about voter registration or where to vote in tomorrows election, Cambridge residents may visit the Election Commission office at 51 Inman St., or call 617-349-4361. Somerville residents may visit the Somerville Election Commission office at City Hall (93 Highland Ave), or call 617-625-6600.

See you at the polls!

Career Family Opportunity Program Launched in Cambridge

2010-10-18T16:42:00.000-04:00

CHA Pisani Center, Cambridge - map

On Thursday, October 7th 2010, I attended and gave brief remarks at the grand opening of the Career Family Opportunity (CFO) program in Cambridge, operated in partnership by the Crittenton Women’s Union (CWU) and the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA). The event, which was held at the Cambridge Housing Authority’s Pisani Center, celebrated the start of an exciting and innovative social program available to single parents who are in the CHA system. The goal of CFO is to give single parents the tools they need to become financially self-sufficient, allowing them to become independent from government assistance within 5 years of enrollment.

Beth Babcock, President and CEO of the Crittenton Women's Union, speaking about Career Family Opportunity's successes.

20 Cambridge families currently residing in CHA public housing have applied and been chosen to participate in CFO. CFO will help each participating parent find a job that pays enough to provide for their family, and will provide the participant with a $10,000 savings account to use for their family’s expenses. Getting families back on their feet quickly is a priority for the Cambridge Housing Authority, and as CHA Deputy Director Michael Johnston pointed out, necessary for CHA if it hopes to provide adequate housing to those who need it. There are currently 13,000 people on the CHA’s waiting list for housing, and at the current rate it will take 24 years to completely clear that list. With so many needing affordable housing now, I am very excited to see the CHA taking an innovative step forward that will help families leave public housing faster, easing the strain on an already overburdened system without imposing term-limits on residents. The CWU has operated this program with high levels of success in Boston, and I see no reason why it won’t be just as successful here in Cambridge.

CHA Deputy Director Michael Johnston speaking about how innovative programs like CFO will improve Cambridge public housing.

I spoke about how I feel that CFO and programs like it are critical for sustaining our communities in tough times.

Tricia Berry, a CFO program participant, (foreground, second from left) gave a moving speech about how CFO has helped her and her son.

The CFO program will undoubtedly have far-reaching effects for our neighbors and neighborhoods. By helping single parents, it will help their families, and with more families becoming independent faster, more of the people who need safe, affordable housing will get it when they need it.

Coming Events: Rib Fest, Somerville Ave Celebration

2010-10-13T17:01:00.002-04:00

ECBA Smoke This Rib Fest - 10/17:

This Sunday, October 17th, from 12pm to 4pm, the East Cambridge Business Association will be holding its "Smoke This Rib Fest" on Cambridge St. between Fulkerson Street and Sixth Street. Rib tasting tickets are sold out, but there will still be plenty of food and fun to check out for those who do not have a ticket. Click here for more information!

SomerStreets Somerville Ave Grand Reopening Celebration - 10/24:

You're invited to come celebrate the grand reopening of Somerville Ave! The celebration will take place on Sunday, October 24 from 12pm to 4 pm. See the flyer below for more information:

Craigie Bridge Detour Information

2010-10-08T16:15:00.002-04:00

New detour information from MassDOT:

Vehicular Detours
Effective November 6, 2010, MassDOT will close all inbound travel lanes on Route 28 southbound at the intersection of Land Boulevard as part of the Craigie Drawbridge Rehabilitation Project. Outbound traffic leaving Boston through Leverett Circle will be unaffected during this period.

Traffic trying to access I-93 and Storrow Drive will be detoured east over the Gilmore (Prison Point) Bridge towards Bunker Hill Community College/City Square. Traffic heading to I-93 Northbound will be directed left through Sullivan Square, while traffic trying to access I-93 Southbound and Route 1 (Tobin Bridge) will be directed to turn right.(see attached map) Traffic traveling to the Charles Circle Area will be detoured westbound down Land Boulevard to the Longfellow Bridge to cross the Charles River. (see attached map)

Access to the Museum of Science will not be restricted but patrons are advised to approach the Museum from Boston to avoid anticipated traffic congestion on the Cambridge side of the project.

Bike and Pedestrian Access during Construction
Full bike and pedestrian access in each direction will be maintained during construction. During Phases 1 and 3 of the drawbridge replacement, only one side of the bridge will be opened and must be shared by inbound and outbound bike and pedestrian traffic. A manned and signalized crossing area will be placed at the mid-point of the roadway at the Museum of Science during these phases.

Somerville Craigie Drawbridge Meeting Later this Month

2010-10-07T13:39:00.006-04:00

The Somerville Board of Aldermen and the Somerville State Legislative Delegation are hosting a public meeting to provide an overview of the construction plans and traffic impacts for the replacement of the Craigie Drawbridge, which will impact traffic patterns in Somerville for the duration of the project. Mass. Department of Transportation (MassDOT) staff will lead the discussion and answer questions.

This project includes the complete replacement of the bridge superstructure and bridge deck as well as the machinery and electrical components. During construction temporary bridge structures will be utilized to carry traffic. Work is expected to begin in early November 2010 and conclude in April 2011. The Craigie Drawbridge Rehabilitation Project is part of the $3 billion Patrick - Murray Accelerated Bridge Program, which aims to restore and repair structurally deficient bridges across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Contact Tim Snyder in Representative Toomey’s Office for information regarding this meeting at Tim.Snyder@MAHouse.Gov or 617.722.2380.

Craigie Bridge Rehab to Cause Traffic Disruptions

2010-10-04T16:25:00.006-04:00

Healy Public Safety Facility, Cambridge - map

On Wednesday, September 29th, I hosted a community information meeting to discuss the upcoming Craigie Drawbridge rehabilitation project and the impact that it will have on the East Cambridge neighborhood. I would like to sincerely thank everyone who attended the meeting and made their suggestions and concerns heard.

Representatives from MassDOT came to the Robert Healy Public Safety Facility on 6th Street in Cambridge to present an overview of the upcoming project and to receive feedback from the community about their plans. They made it very clear that the commute in, around, and through East Cambridge will be ugly this winter. The Craigie Drawbridge, which carries the McGrath O’Brien Highway from Land Boulevard in Cambridge to Leverett Circle in Boston, will be closed to traffic traveling from Cambridge to Boston for a total of 15 weeks this winter. Beginning on November 1st and continuing through April, an extensive restoration and rehabilitation of the Craigie Drawbridge will be undertaken as part of the Massachusetts Accelerated Bridge Program. Because the bridge is a drawbridge serving an active waterway, work on the bridge must be conducted under a Coast Guard permit which requires it to be done during the winter months when boat traffic is at its lightest. Due to this time constraint, the work will be performed on the bridge around the clock for the duration of the project.

View Larger Map

The bridge repairs will be undertaken in three phases that will bring varying degrees of traffic disruption to the area. From November 6th until the end of November, Phase 1 of the project will require that two lanes on the bridge be closed. Only the outbound lanes from Boston to Cambridge will be open. During Phase 2 of the project, which will stretch from the end of November until mid-January, 4 lanes of traffic will be open, with two going in each direction. The third and final Phase will begin in mid-January and continue through April, and will require the two lanes inbound from Cambridge to Boston to be closed in the same manner that they will be during Phase 1.

In order to limit the impact to traffic in the area, MassDOT has put together a plan that includes detours and advanced signage to warn drivers of the lane closures and direct them to alternate routes. Light timings and lane striping will be adjusted in the area to optimize traffic flow to the extent possible. MassDOT has said that they will be monitoring the traffic issues created by the lane closures closely with cameras and on-site observers, and will have a command center set up at the district headquarters to monitor and resolve issues surrounding the project.

With that said, I am disappointed that MassDOT has chosen a traffic plan that will disproportionately impact commuters and residents in Somerville and Cambridge, and that the majority of the increased traffic burden will be suffered on our side of the river. I, along with my fellow City Council members, had expressed to MassDOT our hope that they would implement a traffic plan that would allow one lane of traffic to flow in each direction during the phases of the project in which the bridge will be cut down to two lanes. Although I understand MassDOT’s concerns about keeping Leverett Circle clear of excess traffic on the Boston side of the bridge, I feel that a solution that would have spread the traffic impact more equally to both sides would have been better, and I am unhappy that they will be continuing with the plan that will close the bridge to traffic from Cambridge.

As the start of the project looms closer, I will be continuing to monitor the preparations being made to ensure that the negative impacts to our community are limited in every way possible. My office has set up a third public information meeting about this project so that residents of East Somerville, and anyone else who may wish to attend, may be able to learn about the impact the bridge replacement will have for them, and that they may voice their questions and concerns about the project to MassDOT. The meeting will be held with members of the Somerville state delegation and the Somerville Board of Alderman, and will happen on October 26th from 6pm to 8pm at Somerville City Hall. For more information about this meeting or the Craigie Drawbridge Rehabilitation, click here to download an informational flyer, or contact my office at 617-722-2380.

I will be posting more information about this project as its start date gets closer, so stay tuned.

MIT Holds Community Brainstorming Sessions for New Kendall Square Space

2010-09-20T16:07:00.001-04:00

MIT is soliciting ideas for a new public space in Kendall Square. Public meetings will be held in order to give members of the community an opportunity to voice their ideas for the space. For more information, see the letter below:

MIT is exploring concepts for its properties in Kendall Square and would like to get your input. Please sign up for a community brainstorming session in order to share your ideas with us!

Kendall Square is known throughout the region for its innovative businesses and start-up companies. What has long been missing from Kendall Square – a critical location at a gateway to Cambridge from Boston and accessible by the Red Line – are enough of the types of publicly accessible spaces that make it an enjoyable gathering place for employees, community members, students, and visitors to the region.

MIT is in the process of exploring new ideas for its properties surrounding the Kendall/MIT MBTA station. Although full plans have not been developed, one of the goals of the effort is to enliven the ground floor of current and future buildings with a wide range of uses that will generate excitement and create an enhanced sense of community.

We are hosting a series of community brainstorming sessions to discuss ideas and opportunities for the publicly accessible space in Kendall Square. Among the suggestions we have already heard are patios for outdoor dining, retail shops, public art, and interactive exhibits celebrating technological innovations. But we want to know what you think!

All of the sessions are the same, so please choose whichever one is most convenient for you. In order to help with our planning, we are requesting advance registration. Each session will be approximately 75 to 90 minutes long and held at the Cambridge Marriott.

· Tuesday, September 28, 7:30 pm

· Wednesday, September 29, 8:00 am

· Wednesday, September 29, 7:30 pm

· Register:

E-mail your name, contact information and selected session to kendallsquare@MIT.edu to register. You will receive confirmation of your participation in your selected session. Your contact information will not be used for any other purpose.

· Feedback:

Whether or not you can attend a session, please feel free to send an e-mail with your thoughts to kendallsquare@MIT.edu.

· Learn:

For more about MIT in Kendall Square, please visit http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/2010/kendall-update.html

Sincerely,

Sarah Gallop

Co-Director, Government and Community Relations

MIT

YouthBuild Just-A-Start Seeks Volunteer Mentors

2010-09-09T15:39:00.002-04:00

To anyone who may be interested please have a look at the information below, and to anyone who may know someone who might be interested, please pass the information along. This is a great opportunity:

Volunteer Mentor Opportunity

YouthBuild Just-A-Start is looking for mentors to work with students aged 17-24 who are enrolled in our program. This program provides out of school youth with education, job skills, leadership skills, and a chance to get their lives headed in a positive direction. YouthBuild mentors will provide support to their mentees as they go through the YouthBuild experience, as well as ongoing support to graduates in order to ensure their continued educational, personal, and professional success. Mentors are a key part of the YouthBuild community, supporting the learning, development, and exploration of the students.

Skills Needed

Strong interpersonal skills
Enjoy working with adolescents
Caring, dependable, and a good listener
Supportive, flexible, open and approachable
Resourceful in helping their mentee achieve their educational and career goals.

Responsibilities & Time Commitment

12 month commitment, with approximately 4-6 hours/month (combination of in-person meetings, group activities, phone calls, emails, etc.)
Focus attention on the student’s Life Plan (short and long term goals)
Attend program ceremonies, e.g. a Matching Ceremony and a Celebration at the end of the program
Communicate twice a month with Mentor Coordinator, who will provide support for these relationships.

Eligibility Requirements

25 years of age or older
Successful completion of full application process and training
Acceptable CORI and SORI.

Benefits of Volunteering as a Mentor

Become part of a dynamic, youth focused agency
Experience the fulfillment of watching a young person grow, develop skills, and gain confidence
Opportunity to learn about different cultural and socio-economic backgrounds
Chance to guide a young adult towards their education and career goals
Become more involved in your community.

If interested, please contact:

Kati Chase, Mentor Program Coordinator

YouthBuild Just-A-Start

Phone: 617-492-1460 x20

katichase@justastart.org

CitySprouts Celebrates 10th Anniversary

2010-09-09T14:03:00.000-04:00

CitySprouts is a community organization that partners with Cambridge Public Schools in order to educate students about their health and the environment. It operates a district-wide school garden program that serves over 4,000 children, with a garden at each K-8 school in Cambridge. The integration of these school gardens into the class curriculum creates a valuable opportunity for children to learn about agriculture, sustainability, and where the food they eat comes from.

On Saturday, October 2nd from 11am-3pm, CitySprouts will be holding a Harvest Festival at the Tobin School. Come share the harvest grown at public schools throughout Cambridge, while enjoying crafts, games, and cooking activities. Tours of the CitySprouts garden at the Tobin School will be given, as well, giving visitors an opportunity to learn more about this exciting program! More information is available at citysprouts.org.

Health and Nutrition Services Available to Elder Residents

2010-09-02T15:49:00.013-04:00

At the beginning of last month I wrote about an upcoming series of blog posts that will focus on the unique challenges facing our elder citizens. The goal of these posts will be to examine elder issues in depth, and to offer information about services available to elders that will help them thrive. In part one of the series I will discuss some of the complex health and nutrition-related issues that aging has created for many members of The Greatest Generation.

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The right to choose where and how we live and the right to live with dignity are values that I believe our society should uphold and dearly respect. For all adults, young and old, the ability to be independent day-to-day can greatly influence quality of life. The ability for many elders to remain independent hinges heavily on their ability to stay healthy.

Staying healthy requires, first and foremost, access to quality, affordable healthcare. In some cases, the most appropriate health care services for elders are those that are performed in the home. Home Care allows many elders who have difficulty with mobility to remain in their homes while being provided with truly essential medical and social services. At present, The Executive Office of Elder Affairs has the ability to provide Home Care to 45,000 elders each month through 27 different Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) located throughout the Commonwealth. ASAPs provide a wide variety of services to elders, ranging from medication-dispensing and grocery delivery to in-home healthcare and protective advocacy.

In the cities of Cambridge and Somerville, Home Care services are provided by Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services (SCES). Eligible elders (click here for eligibility information) can receive assistance with tasks such as bathing, dressing, housework, laundry, grocery shopping, medication reminders, meal preparation, or medical transportation. The services are state-subsidized, and co-pays are determined on a sliding scaled based on income.

These services are essential to improving and maintaining the quality of life of many elders and persons with disabilities. Unfortunately, whenever Massachusetts needs to tighten its purse-strings, these are the types of programs that tend to suffer, limiting the choices that our elders have, and in some cases, forcing them to move out of their homes and into long-term care facilities. Earlier this month, however, the federal government approved $450 million in state aid for Medicaid in Massachusetts, meaning that a large amount of funding for state health programs that was cut during this year’s budget process will be restored.

Eating balanced, nutritious meals is essential to remaining healthy, and as a result, remaining independent. It may sound simple, but this is one of the toughest challenges facing elders, especially those with low incomes or limited access to transportation. Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services provides a number of services that help elders eat a healthy diet for a cost they can afford. For those who need meals delivered to their homes, a meals-on-wheels service is available that provides a hot lunch and a cold bag supper Monday through Saturday, as well as frozen meals for the weekends. SCES also operates Community Cafés which serve hot meals Monday through Friday at senior centers and senior/disabled housing in Cambridge and Somerville. These programs are available for a small suggested donation to those eligible and for a fee for all others. To learn about who is eligible, visit the SCES web page by clicking here or call 617-628-2601 for more information.

For those who are able to prepare their own meals but may have trouble acquiring the ingredients necessary for a healthy, balanced diet, SCES and the Greater Boston Food Bank operate a “brown bag program” which provides eligible residents with a 10-15 pound bag of healthy groceries. The bags typically contain things such as milk, cheese, pasta, rice, ground beef, tuna, green beans, peanut butter, and oatmeal. The program is open to residents of Somerville and Cambridge who meet certain age, disability, and income requirements. For more information on the program’s eligibility requirements and how to register, click here.

SCES also offers nutritional counseling at local senior centers, and private counseling is available for SCES clients. For those who have difficulty meeting their nutritional needs through solid food, SCES offers nutritional “boost shakes” at their office, or for delivery to SCES clients. EBT (food stamp) cards are accepted as payments.

For more information about these services, you can call Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services at 617-628-2601, or visit their website at http://eldercare.org/ContactUs/ContactInfo.shtm. You can also request information in person by visiting their offices at 61 Medford St. in Somerville.

Constituent Tours offered by the State Library

2010-09-02T12:07:00.004-04:00

State House, Boston - map

The State Library is inviting the general public to come and tour its extensive collection! This may be of special interest to anyone who is looking to arrange a tour for a school group with a desire to learn more about their city or town's history.

Anyone who would like to set up a tour can contact Pamela Schofield at pamela.schofield@state.ma.us or call 617-727-2590. You can also contact the reference department directly using the above number or by e-mailing reference.department@state.ma.us.

For more information, visit the library's blog here.

Tim Appears on SCATV's Greater Somerville

2010-08-24T12:22:00.000-04:00

On August 3rd I appeared on "Greater Somerville" with Joe Lynch and KyAnn Anderson to discuss some of the hot issues being debated on Beacon Hill and beyond. You can watch the complete show below.

Lesley Uiversity/CPSD Compass Program Visits State House

2010-08-18T11:51:00.005-04:00

State House, Boston - map

On August 12, 2010, faculty and students from the Lesley University/Cambridge Public Schools Compass Program came to Beacon Hill for a visit of the State House. The children enrolled in the program are K-6 students from all over Cambridge. Supervised by student teachers and their mentors, the students spend their summer in the Compass program engaged in various enrichment activities and academic studies.

After their guided tour of the State House, I got a chance to meet the group and speak with them about their experiences. I also spoke with the students about the legislative process and how a bill becomes a law. They were such a bright, inquisitive group, and a pleasure to have!

Tim with the Compass Program group.

If you have a group that would like to schedule a State House tour, please give my office a call at 617-722-2380.

Flood Assistance Update

2010-08-05T16:51:00.001-04:00

The deadline for picking up a Small Business Association disaster loan application at Somerville High has been extended to Thursday, August 12, at 5:00pm. If you have not done so, please do so as soon as possible. The address for the high school is:

Somerville High School
81 Highland Avenue
Somerville, MA 02143

For a map, click here.

Flood Assistance for July 10th Storm

2010-07-30T15:16:00.000-04:00

The US Small Business Association has declared the flash flooding that affected many parts of Somerville and Cambridge on July 10th a disaster. This declaration allows eligible parties to apply for low interest loans in order to recover from physical damage and economic injury caused by the flooding. Applications for a physical damage loan are due by September 27, 2010, and applications for an economic injury loan are due on April 27, 2011.

A disaster loan outreach center is open at the following location:
Somerville High School (Atrium at the Field House)
81 Highland Avenue
Somerville, MA 02143

It will be open at the following times:
Friday July 30, 2010 from 9:00AM to 5:30PM

Saturday July 31, 2010 from 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Monday August 2 through Thursday August 5, 2010 from 9:00AM to 5:30PM

To learn more about this program, please click here.

Additionally, the Home Improvement Program at Homeowners Rehab have available affordable financing, free construction and project management to repair the flood damaged homes of those who qualify. To learn more about this program, please click here.

Once again, those who have questions or concerns about the flooding earlier this month may call my office at Cambridge City Hall at 617-349-4278 or my office at the State House at 617-722-2380.

Flash Flooding Hits Cambridge and Somerville

2010-07-20T16:52:00.005-04:00

Cambridge and Somerville - map

As many of you know, Cambridge and Somerville were hit with heavy rain and some severe flash flooding last Saturday (July 10th). According to officials from the City of Cambridge, the severity of the flooding was caused by rainfall totaling 3.58” within a one-hour period in Cambridge, and 4.3” in the same hour in Somerville. An inch of that rainfall occurred within 10 minutes—a truly incredible rate that exceeded the capacity of the Cities' drainage systems.

I am aware of the fact that a number of homes and businesses were damaged by the flooding, and I would like to take this opportunity to offer my support to those who have been impacted, and to make available some important information that may be helpful during this stressful time.

If your home or business was damaged by the flood and you have not yet reported this to your City's Department of Public Works, please do so! The Cities need to reach a certain damage threshold in order to receieve disaster assistance, and the Cities' abilities to accurately assess damages is critical to this process. If you are inside Somerville, you can dial 311 to reach the DPW. Cambridge residents should call 617-349-4800 to report damage. Please document any damage to your home or business, and save any receipts that you have from your cleanup.

At the moment, officials from the City of Cambridge and the State are working with FEMA and MEMA (Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency) to coordinate an appropriate response for the victims of the flood. Though it has not yet been determined whether or not disaster assistance funds will be available for the community, it is certainly a possibility.

The Cambridge Department of Public Works has set up a website with information for victims of the flooding: http://www.cambridgema.gov/TheWorks/news/FloodingJuly2010.htm

The City of Somerville has set up a similar website for Somerville residents who have been affected: http://www.somervillema.gov/alert.cfm?alert_id=295

I encourage anyone with questions about the flooding last Saturday to call my office at City Hall at 617-349-4278, or my office at the State House at 617-722-2380.

Service to Elders the Focus of Student's Prize Winning Essay

2010-07-06T13:29:00.003-04:00

State House - map

On May 20, 2010, Angela Ward, an eighth grade student at Shady Hill School in Cambridge, was honored at the State House for winning the Grand Prize in the 2010 Credit Union Student Essay Contest. The contest, sponsored by the Massachusetts Credit Union League Inc. and the Massachusetts Credit Union Share Insurance Corporation, asked students this: “if you had unlimited time and money, what aspect of community service would you volunteer for and why?” Angela’s thoughtful and impressively written essay was judged to be the best among more than 1,200 entries from around the Commonwealth.

Tim presents a citation to Angela at the State House.

In her grand prize-winning essay, Angela writes that given unlimited time and money, she would use it to improve the quality of life of our senior citizens. “For five years I have had the privilege of living with my 93-year-old Granddaddy,” she writes. She goes on to describe how her Grandfather has needs, but requires the support and love of those around him to meet those needs. She recognizes, however, the fact that not all seniors have the help that her family is able to give to her Grandfather, and instead require the support of the community in order to have their needs met. What an insightful young woman!

Angela concludes her essay by saying this: “helping elderly people is an investment in their future and ours.” I couldn’t agree more, and in that spirit I will be writing a series of blog posts highlighting the issues our elders face, what services are available to them, and how to volunteer in order to make a difference in their lives. Stay tuned in the weeks ahead for this important information.

Click here to read Angela's complete essay.

Good Jobs in Higher Education Forum Held at State House

2010-06-24T11:47:00.004-04:00

State House, Boston - map

As you surely know, Cambridge is recognized across the globe as a center for academic study and technological advancement. The prestige that MIT and Harvard bring to the city is something that Cambridge should certainly be proud of, but equally worthy of our City’s pride and recognition are the thousands of people who work behind the scenes to keep these institutions running at full steam.

On Wednesday, June 16th, I co-hosted a forum with SEIU Local 615 at the State House to discuss the state of jobs at higher education institutions across Massachusetts. Wayne Langley, the higher education director at SEIU Local 615, joined John Collins, an employee of MIT, and Juan Gutarra, an employee of Harvard, in expressing their concerns about how the endowment crisis has impacted workers and local communities.

Wayne Langley discusses the findings of the white paper.

Mr. Langley discussed the findings of a white paper that was commissioned by SEIU Local 615 to study the effects that the financial downturn has had on endowments at institutions in New England. The paper’s findings point to the need for higher education institutions to pursue more responsible investment strategies in order to protect the livelihoods of their workers. It is my hope that these findings will help start a productive dialogue within the legislature about how to ensure that the communities of the Commonwealth that depend on higher education jobs can survive times of economic instability.

John Collins speaks to Tim after the event.

Mr. Collins, a long time resident of Somerville and active member of SEIU Local 615, gave a powerful speech about his recent experiences as an employee of MIT. He explained that as he has watched MIT expand, he has also seen friends, co-workers, and neighbors lose their jobs at the institution. He stressed that many parts of Cambridge and Somerville depend heavily on MIT for good, reliable jobs, which have become harder and harder to find in recent years.

Juan Gutarra described how his experience working at Harvard has changed during the economic downturn.

Mr. Gutarra, speaking through a translator, explained that he has faced a similar situation at Harvard, where he has worked as a janitor for the past decade. He described how his hours have been cut and altered, making it harder for him to get by, and asked that more oversight be exercised over universities to ensure that endowments are invested responsibly.

It was a great honor to co-host this important discussion with SEIU Local 615, and to hear the concerns and challenges of our community’s workers firsthand. I believe that this forum has helped raise awareness in the legislature over what is a critical situation to so many, and I am looking forward to working with my colleagues to tackle this complex issue. Above all, I will continue to stand by the workers of Cambridge and Somerville in the months and years to come.

Positive Steps Forward for Green Line Extension

2010-06-22T15:33:00.004-04:00

East Cambridge & East Somerville - map

After years of countless meetings, public hearings, letters and tireless advocacy from so many involved community members, I’m pleased to announce that the Commonwealth has reached a major milestone in the extension of the Green Line through Cambridge, Somerville and Medford with the release of the Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA).

The Green Line Extension will vastly improve the state of public transportation in the City of Somerville, making our community easier to access for residents and visitors. As this project moves forward, however, we need to make sure it is done in a way that is right for the people who live near it and the people who will use it when it is completed.

Before a project of this magnitude can be undertaken, it is important that we study the potential impact on the environment, the safety of the community, and the quality of life for the Green Line Extension’s immediate neighbors. Last year, EOEEA released a Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment (DEIR/EA) detailing the effects of the proposed extension.

In January, I sent a letter with my comments regarding the DEIR/EA to Secretary Ian Bowles of EOEEA. I used my comments to express many of the concerns that members of the community had voiced to me. On June 15th, the FEIR was released, and I am happy to say that many of the changes to the DEIR/EA that our community advocated for have been included in the final report.

First and foremost of these changes is the decision about the location of the new Green Line maintenance facility. In the letter that I sent to the Secretary in January, I expressed my concern that the use of Yard 8 for the maintenance facility (which was at that time the favored option) would negatively impact the residents of the Brickbottom area, and would potentially stifle future economic development within the Inner Belt. In my comments, I stressed that Option L, one of the two alternatives presented in the report, was a far better choice for the location of the maintenance facility. Thanks to the active participation among members of the community, including elected officials, the Somerville Transportation Equity Partnership (STEP) and the residents of Brickbottom, I am pleased to report that MassDOT has chosen Option L as the preferred site for the maintenance facility.

This is a victory for the residents of East Somerville and East Cambridge for a number of reasons:

• Option L will create more separation between residential areas and the maintenance yard.

• It will not preclude road construction between Brickbottom and the Inner Belt, meaning that future economic development in the area will not be hindered.

• The Brickbottom Artist Building, Hampton Inn Hotel, Glass Factory Condominiums, and future developments on Water St. will experience no more than one decibel of additional noise from the Option L maintenance yard.

• The placement of the facility in an existing industrial area will mean that the local environment will not be substantially altered.

• The yard will comply with all state and federal air quality regulations, and will reduce the amount of storm water drainage at the site.

Option L (center in blue) would produce less noise for Brickbottom residents than Yard 8 (bottom left in blue).

In my January letter, I also expressed concerns over the design of the proposed Lechmere station overhaul. These concerns were echoed by the East Cambridge Planning Team (ECPT), and I am pleased to see that the redesign includes better door access from the north and south sides of the station, as well as fare collection and other amenities that are now fully inside the station, shielded from the elements. The bus drop-off/pick-up area will now be directly connected to the station by a door, and the station will be fully handicap accessible.

One of my most pressing concerns about the Green Line Extension project is that it will move Lechmere station to the opposite side of the Monsignor O'Brien Highway, creating a potentially dangerous situation for the thousands of commuters that will now need to cross a wide, busy street to access Lechmere from East Cambridge. The layout that has been proposed since the DEIR includes accommodations for a wider pedestrian crosswalk, and the FEIR makes the recommendation that a median no less than 20 feet wide be constructed on the O’Brien Highway in order to shield pedestrians from turning traffic. Although this is not an ideal solution for the commuters travelling to the station from East Cambridge, it is a vast improvement over earlier proposals. I will continue to fight both in the State House and City Hall to make pedestrian safety a top priority as the project moves forward.

The proposed Lechmere station layout found in the June 15th FEIR.

Finally, I want to share with you my excitement at seeing the Green Line Extension moving closer to becoming a reality. The release of the Final Environmental Impact Report marks a significant step forward for a project that will be crucial to the future of East Somerville. Affordable and efficient transportation is critical to any urban area, and the latest numbers indicate that the Green Line Extension will increase daily ridership by 52,000 people by 2030. That means that each day, 25,000 fewer miles will be travelled by cars through our communities! Now that, my friends, is a breath of fresh air.

MAPS Director Honored at 26th Annual Heritage Day of Portugal

2010-06-09T15:55:00.000-04:00

State House - Boston map

On Tuesday, June 1st, 2010, members of the House, Senate, the Massachusetts Portuguese community, Lt. Governor Murray, and others gathered in the House Chamber to celebrate the 26th Annual Heritage Day of Portugal. The Heritage Day of Portugal was founded in 1985 as a way to honor the contributions that Portuguese immigrants, those of Portuguese decent, and friends of the Portuguese community make to their neighborhoods, the Commonwealth, and the nation.

Recipients of the Portuguese Heritage Award were honored in the House Chamber.

Each year I have the great honor of recognizing an individual member of the Portuguese community in Cambridge and Somerville who has enriched the lives of those around them. This year was certainly no exception. It was with great pride that this year I nominated the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Alliance of Portuguese Speakers (MAPS), Paulo R. Pinto, for the Portuguese Heritage Award.

Paulo is a native of Portugal, and was raised in Mozambique. He immigrated to the United States in 1980 and has spent his career working on behalf of the Portuguese community in the health and social service fields. Before joining the MAPS in 1994, Paulo served as Executive Director of the Immigrants Assistance Center, Inc. of New Bedford for four years. Paulo also coordinated the Governor’s Urban Teen Service Corps and Youth Council for the Center for Health and Human Services in New Bedford.

Paulo began his career at MAPS as Program Administrator for Disease Prevention in 1994, and then moved up to Deputy Executive Director in late 1995. In 2000, he was appointed to the position of Executive Director of MAPS by the organization’s board of directors. For the last 10 years, Paulo has led the organization with the vision of improving the lives of the Portuguese-speaking residents of Massachusetts. MAPS helps members of Portuguese-speaking communities become active participants in American society while maintaining a strong cultural identity. MAPS also seeks to increase the Portuguese-speaking community’s access to essential services, such as health and education, through advocacy and outreach.

Tim with award recipient Paulo R. Pinto

Paulo Pinto is a shining example of an individual who understands what it means to be an effective advocate. His service to our community’s Portuguese-speaking immigrants has been essential in building a thriving and engaged Portuguese community in Cambridge and Somerville, and it was an honor to have had the opportunity to recognize him.

ESMS Birthday Bash Showcases Rich History and Future of East Somerville

2010-03-09T21:01:00.000-05:00

SOMERVILLE - Cafe Belo, 120 Washington St. map
East Somerville Main Streets

East Somerville Main Streets celebrated its third birthday with a big bash and a big crowd at Cafe Belo on Washington St. across from Buddy's Diner. ESMS has come a long way in three short years, to the benefit of the entire area. The group has worked tirelessly to connect the residents with municipal government, state government, local businesses, and each other. True to form, this birthday bash connected residents, businesses, law enforcement, and elected officials over good food and good conversation.

East Somerville residents enjoyed food and met their neighbors at Cafe Belo
*Photo credits to Renee Polcaro

ESMS wasn't the only birthday: lifelong Somerville resident and dedicated volunteer Fred Caruso also celebrated his 79th birthday. Ward 1 Alderman Bill Roche, and Aldermen-At-Large Dennis Sullivan, Bill White, and Jack Connolly were on hand to celebrate the evening and to present the "Mayor of East Somerville" with a resolution from the Board recognizing his hard work and dedication to East Somerville. Fred has been a great friend to me and to all of East Somerville over the years, and it was touching to see how humbly and graciously he received recognition from the Aldermen and from the crowd.

Fred Caruso receives a citation from the Board of Aldermen
(left to right: Alderman Connolly, Alderman White, Alderman Roche, Fred's son John Caruso, Alderman Sullivan, and myself)

Some of the highlights of the evening:

* Volunteers from the ESMS committees for some of the most popular community events in Somerville spoke on behalf of the work their committees have organized, including Renee Polcaro on First Tuesdays Neighborhood Afterhours, Matthew Martino on International Movie Nights, Christian Waeber on Cleanup Day, and Laura Vivenzio on the Savoring East Somerville Cookbook and Neighborhood Guide.

East Somerville resident and ESMS member Renee describes the First Tuesdays event

* A presentation from ESMS member Eric Barry on the first ever ESMS survey, commissioned to provide a snapshot of the neighborhood's visitors and residents as a starting point for the group's work. A followup will be done in ten years to provide insight into how the neighborhood has changed and gauge how closely ESMS goals have been met.

The assembled crowd of local residents, elected officials, business owners, and law enforcement watched on as the presenters described the ESMS projects.

* Acting police chief Michael Cabral spoke about the neighborhood policing efforts the police force has undertaken, especially since the introdcution of the East Somerville police substation.

Acting Somerville Police Chief Michael Cabral

* State Senator Patricia Jehlen spoke on the long history of neighborhood involvement and the successes she has seen over the years living in and representing Somerville.

State Senator Pat Jehlen offers up a history of successful community involvement in Somerville

* Monica Lamboy from the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development in Somerville spoke on behalf of Mayor Curtatone to describe some of the big changes coming soon, including upcoming construction on Washington St. and Assembly Sq.

* Dorie Clark, an East Somerville resident and communications expert, is stepping down this year as Vice President of the ESMS Board and was honored for her work. President Susan Fontano and Executive Director Carrie Dancy described how valuable she has been helping them get ESMS up and running.

Outgoing Vice President of the ESMS board Dorie Clark receives congratulations from board President Susan Fontano

From the size of the crowd and the energy of the people, it is clear the ESMS staff, board, volunteers, and neighbors have done a lot of groundwork to bring the organization to where it is now. East Somerville Main Streets has done excellent work engaging, connecting, and bringing out the best from the people of East Somerville.

Little League Tryouts: East Cambridge March 13th, Somerville March 21st

2010-03-04T11:15:00.000-05:00

CAMBRIDGE - Frisoli Youth Center, 61 Willow St, Cambridge map
East Cambridge Little League Baseball

SOMERVILLE - Cousens Gym, 161 College Ave at Tufts, Somerville map
Somerville Little League Baseball

Baseball season is almost here! Don't miss the chance to get your kids on the field for tryouts this Saturday, March 13th at 9am in East Cambridge and Saturday, March 21st from 10am-4pm in Somerville.

Somerville Little League can be reached at 617.326.7333

From the East Cambridge little league website:

Registration 2010
Returning players, new players, and returning and new farm
league/t-ballers, are requested to pay the registration fee as soon as possible
for the Spring 2009 season. Little League - $60; TBall/Farm - $30.

At 9am, Saturday March 13th, registration will be accepted at the Frisoli Youth
Center (61 Willow St.) during Tryouts/Draft Day.

Please contact President Don "Ducky" Down by email: dfourdowns@msn.com or cell phone: (617.777.7314 ).

Tim's Community Blog

Next Week: Transportation Day on the Hill

Broadway Sidewalk Reconstruction Community Meeting Jan. 11th

New Lechmere Station Design Progressing, Concerns Linger About McGrath Crossing, Bus Routes

MassDOT Shelves Grand Junction Proposal

Grand Junction Public Meeting December 8th

Redistricting Plan Could Divide Cambridge

Community Meeting Recap

Recent Robbery Spree

Mock Green Line Groundbreaking Declares that we are Shovel Ready

Tomorrow: Mock Green Line Extension Groundbreaking

Somerville Begins Single Stream Recycling This Week

Second Annual ECBA Rib Fest a Major Success

Transfer Station to Leave Brickbottom Next Year

ECBA Smoke This Rib Fest This Sunday!

Feds Approve Funds for Rail Expansion at South Station

Cambridge Responds to Proposed Hazmat Route Changes

Update: Washington Street and Somerville Ave Intersections

Public Meetings for the Month of October

Spotlight on Local Business: Modern Homebrew Emporium Customer Appreciation Day

Mudflat Unveils New Studio

City of Cambridge Seeks Members for Police Review and Advisory Board

Grounding McGrath Study and Working Group

Feast of Saints Cosmas and Damian

Hearing to be Held on Monday to Discuss Developer Mitigation

Hurricane Preparedness

Route Changes May Bring More Hazardous Materials Through Cambridge and Somerville

Reminder: Community Meeting Tonight at Police Station

East End House Summer Block Party this Wednesday

Community Meeting to be Held to Discuss Increase in Housebreaks

Residents Petition State for Clear GLX Plan

Multi-year Delays Expected in Green Line Extension Project

Run and Ride Duathalon this Sunday at CambridgeSide

In-State Tuition Bill Receives Hearing

Op-Ed: Grand Junction Proposal Bad for Cambridge and Somerville

Lechmere Station Design Workshop Tonight

Overnight Memorial Drive Lane Closures Starting June 26th

Bottle Bill Hearing to be Held July 20th

MassDevelopment Loans Boost Economic Development in Cambridge and Somerville

Water Main Break Disrupts Water Supply for Cambridge Residents

City Seeking East Cambridge Transportation Study Participants

MassDOT to Hold Public Meeting to Discuss Grand Junction Feasibility Study

Somerville Lawmakers Visit Troubled Intersections

Memorial Day Travel Information from MassDOT

East Cambridge Cleanup Day this Saturday

Red Line Single Person Operation Meeting in Cambridge

Crime Prevention Meeting

Lechmere Green Line Service to be Replaced with Shuttle Buses

Craigie Drawbridge to Reopen April 26th

Salad Bar Opens at Winter Hill Community School Cafeteria

Advocates Raise Stroke Awareness at State House

Somerville Street Sweeping to Begin April 1st

Thousands in Cambridge and Somerville can Claim Abandoned Property

Street Cleaning to Resume in Cambridge on April 1st

Budget Forum to be Held April 12

Longfellow Bridge Information Meeting April 11th

Residents Speak Out about Grand Junction

Constituent Tours at the State Library

Key Green Line Extension Deal Reached

Celebrating Dr. Seuss's Birthday at ESCS

Brickbottom Residents Discuss Grand Junction

Craigie Drawbridge Will Close Again on Saturday, January 8th

Bicycle and Pedestrian Access during ConstructionBike and pedestrian access in each direction will be maintained during construction.

Charles River ChannelAs a result of the construction activities, the Charles River Channel will be closed to all marine traffic reopening no later than April 27, 2010.

Happy Thanksgiving!

ECBA Celebrates One Year Anniversary

Your Craigie Comments

Reminder: Craigie Drawbridge Closes to Boston-bound Traffic Tomorrow

Election Day is Tomorrow, November 2nd

Career Family Opportunity Program Launched in Cambridge

Coming Events: Rib Fest, Somerville Ave Celebration

Craigie Bridge Detour Information

Somerville Craigie Drawbridge Meeting Later this Month

Craigie Bridge Rehab to Cause Traffic Disruptions

MIT Holds Community Brainstorming Sessions for New Kendall Square Space

YouthBuild Just-A-Start Seeks Volunteer Mentors

Responsibilities & Time Commitment

Eligibility Requirements

Benefits of Volunteering as a Mentor

CitySprouts Celebrates 10th Anniversary

Bicycle and Pedestrian Access during Construction
Bike and pedestrian access in each direction will be maintained during construction.

Charles River Channel
As a result of the construction activities, the Charles River Channel will be closed to all marine traffic reopening no later than April 27, 2010.