To the editor:
I’m writing to raise awareness about proposed development projects along the Lynnway — projects that many residents are still unaware of but that could significantly and negatively impact our area. These changes are especially concerning for people who commute into Boston for work.
If you’ve driven the Lynnway recently, you’ve probably noticed the new bike lane, which eliminates a lane of traffic as you approach the rotary into Nahant. Most people agree this change was unnecessary, especially given the very low number of cyclists using the road. In fact, the Town of Nahant even offered to fund a survey to count the number of bike riders — knowing the data would confirm what we all see with our own eyes. Lynn declined the offer.
Now, there’s a new proposal to remove yet another traffic lane in order to add a dedicated bus lane.
According to the most recent data available — from a 2015 report by the MPO — between 41,000 and 44,000 vehicles travel the Lynnway each day. By contrast, the MBTA reports that only about 3,000 people use the bus daily.
There is no updated public data to support the addition of either the bike lane or the proposed bus lane. And frankly, it seems intentional. Efforts to gather public input have been minimal and poorly planned. Of three scheduled meetings, one was canceled, and the Marblehead meeting was held in the middle of a workday — when most residents were unable to attend. Even more frustrating, the MBTA was unable to clearly explain why this project is necessary. Isn’t that the most important question?
If approved, these changes will reduce the Lynnway — the only direct route into Boston for many North Shore communities — to just two lanes. This is in addition to the SHIP project, which will introduce multiple cross streets along the Lynnway and further exacerbate traffic congestion.
We need to ask some serious questions:
- How will this impact the daily commute for North Shore residents?
- Is it logical to add 1,700+ new housing units along the Lynnway while simultaneously reducing traffic lanes?
- What will be the effect on commuter rail parking in Swampscott, which is already full by 7 a.m. most days?
- Why are we asking people to spend even more time in traffic, away from their families, after a long day of work?
- How will this affect delivery trucks that rely on the Lynnway to service North Shore businesses?
None of these issues are being adequately addressed.
Marblehead, Nahant, Swampscott, and other North Shore communities will suffer the consequences of these decisions. Anyone who uses the Lynnway regularly can see this.
Lynn is ignoring the needs of the broader community to cater to a small — and in some cases, hypothetical — subset of people. The wheels are already in motion on a project that could seriously disrupt daily life for thousands of residents and taxpayers.
It’s critical that we raise awareness now — before it’s too late.
Thank you,
Addie Flynn
Marblehead
