The proposed roadway section will include 11’ travel lanes with 2’-4’ shoulders or 8’ parking lanes where street parking is allowed. Separated, raised bicycle lanes are proposed from Great Plain Avenue to Rosemary Street and Morton Street to Alfreton Road. On-road bicycle lanes are proposed from Rosemary Street to Morton Street and Alfreton Road to Webster Street.

The improvements along West Street include roadway and sidewalk reconstruction and a new traffic signal at Hillside Avenue/West Street, High Crash Location, to address findings from a Road Safety Audit conducted in 2021. The project will also address findings from a traffic impact analysis developed in relation to the MBTA Communities Act in 2024.

The primary goal of the project is to implement Complete Streets improvements along the Highland Avenue corridor to enhance safety and accessibility for all users (motor vehicles, transit, pedestrians, and bicycles) of all ages and abilities. These improvements include the installation of ADA/AAB/PROWAG compliant sidewalks, pedestrian curb ramps, and raised or on-road bicycle facilities; intersection improvements (including a new signal at a high crash location); and upgrade of traffic signal equipment at the signalized intersections within the project limits. The improvements on Highland Avenue also aim to enhance connectivity and provide the foundation for future multimodal infrastructure in the heart of Needham, all in effort to create a more connected and vibrant downtown. The proposed improvements will also include opportunities for streetscape enhancements to help establish a sense of place along the corridor for the well-being of all roadway users.

Additionally, Needham Public Works’ goal is to maximize public engagement early in the design process to ensure all stakeholders’ vision for Highland Avenue is considered and incorporated into the design, to the extent feasible.