Route 1 road work slowing down traffic

SAUGUS – Commuters might not be aware that the Saugus River meanders under Route 1, but those traveling south past the Lynn Fells Parkway exit are certainly aware of some slow downs.The state highway department began work this week on shoring up an overpass that sits just north of the Lynn Fells exit.Department of Public Works Superintendent Joseph Attubato said he was surprised to learn that the work was being done since he wasn’t aware there was an issue with the bridge.”I thought it was a survey for a new waterline to Lynnfield, but it’s not,” he said. “They’ll try and repair it so heavy trucks can still travel over it.”Attubato said there was some concern by the state that wear and tear on the bridge had weakened the structural integrity of the bridge. However, he was slightly more concerned with the cones the crews had set out to warn travelers of the work.”It’s a dangerous situation,” he said.A flashing sign sits just off of Route 1 south at the base of the Walnut Street onramp warning drivers of the upcoming work. The bright orange cones begin to appear in front of Prince Pizzeria and are one lane deep by the time drivers hit Dunkin’ Donuts, which makes turning into the doughnut shop precarious and getting out even tougher.Attubato said it also appears that the lane is blocked up past the Lynn Fells exit when, in fact, it isn’t.The problem, Attubato explained, is that commuters might not realize the exit is open until they’re already on top of it, which results in the driver making abrupt and probably rapid turns off the highway.”It’s not a good situation,” Attubato said. “People should be aware of it.”Attubato said he is unsure how long the project will take, but advises drivers to take it easy while traveling between Walnut Street and the Lynn Fells Parkway.