Nahant Causeway project set to go soon

NAHANT-The Nahant Causeway Rehabilitation project could break ground as early as June, according to officials.Nahant Town Administrator Mark Cullinan met with representatives from the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) last week and said the state expects to start the project in June.?The DCR reviewed its final plans and schedule for the Causeway with us,” he said. “I am very happy to report that all of the concerns expressed by the town in previous meetings (with the DCR) were addressed to every one’s satisfaction.”When the DCR rolled out its original proposal for the Causeway project, town officials and residents alike strenuously objected to some aspects of the rehabilitation project. The original plans called for narrowing the Nahant Causeway to one lane in each direction at the midway point on the inbound side from Lynn to Nahant, replacing the jersey barrier in the middle of the Causeway with rumble strips and adding a crosswalk at the midway point. At numerous public hearings, residents and town officials said those changes would pose public safety hazards and the state decided to keep the road two lanes in each direction, keep a median divider and eliminate the proposed crosswalk.Cullinan said the state delegation played a crucial role in securing funding for the project and ensuring the concerns of the town were addressed.?I cannot emphasize enough the role our elected officials played in getting to this project through to final design,” Cullinan said. “This project began many years ago with then Sen. Chip Clancy and was picked up with great enthusiasm by Sen. Thomas McGee (D-Lynn) and Rep. Steve Walsh (D-Lynn). McGee and Walsh played critical roles in securing the funds and making sure all of the Nahant’s concerns were addressed. Through several well attended public hearings the Board of Selectmen ensured that every concern was addressed.”Cullinan also complimented DCR Commissioner Richard Sullivan for his willingness to address concerns brought forth by the town.?In a time when public opinion polls for our elected officials are at an all time low, this is a shining example of how effective our elected officials have been,” he said. “We are lucky to have them represent us.”Cullinan said the DCR has already received approval from the Nahant Conservation Commission for the project and he expect work to begin this summer. The project is expected to take up to a year to complete.