Multi-modal Transportation Improvements to Broadway in Kendall Square
Weston & Sampson designed and implemented multi-modal transportation improvements along Broadway, between First and Ames streets, in Cambridge’s Kendall Square.
Based on in-depth study of the traffic counts along that block, it was determined that a reduction in travel lanes would not negatively impact the flow of traffic in or out of the area. This design strategy allowed for the inclusion of 5-foot wide bicycle travel lanes, turning lanes, an expanded lane for taxi queuing, and a bus pull-in in front of the Marriott Hotel.
Pedestrian circulation was prioritized through grading level crossings at driveways, and the mid-block crosswalk was aligned to be perpendicular to the flow of vehicular travel. The reduction of lanes from two to one in each direction removed the “double-jeopardy” conditions pedestrians were subjected to and allowed for an expanded pedestrian domain.
The entire streetscape within the project area was upgraded. The concrete sidewalks that formerly lined the corridor have given way to grassed lawn areas and brick pads for bench seating areas are located adjacent to brick accent strips lining the curbs.
All sidewalk and pedestrian areas were designed and constructed based on stringent Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards for accessibility. Low maintenance ground cover beds and tree plantings to supplement the existing trees now soften the otherwise hard environment. With the installation of new hybrid pedestrian signalization and the roadway and landscape alterations, this is a corridor where pedestrian circulation is of major importance.