Public input sought on major I-95 project

Apr 8

(2-3 minute read)

Residents in Reading and surrounding communities will have an opportunity to learn more about proposed improvements to Interstate 95 and provide input during an upcoming virtual public hearing.

Virtual public hearing scheduled

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation will host a Virtual Design Public Hearing on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 6:30 pm. The hearing will present plans for proposed improvements along I-95 in Reading, Stoneham, and Wakefield.

Residents can learn more and register here.

What the project includes

According to MassDOT, the proposed project includes:

Adding a fifth travel lane on I-95 northbound between I-93 and the Route 28 northbound off-ramp
Adding a fourth lane between Route 28 and North Ave
Safety improvements, including upgrading signage and pavement markings
Wider shoulders along the corridor
Noise barriers along both northbound and southbound sections to reduce traffic noise

Officials noted that bicycle and pedestrian accommodations are not included, as they cannot be constructed on interstate highways.

Project footprint and land use

MassDOT indicated that the existing right-of-way is expected to be sufficient for the project. If additional land is required, the Commonwealth would be responsible for acquiring any necessary rights in public or private property.

Details on land acquisition policies will be discussed during the hearing.

Opportunity for public input

The purpose of the hearing is to give residents the opportunity to:

Review project plans
Ask questions
Provide feedback and comments

All comments submitted will be reviewed and considered as part of the project process.

Written comments and materials can be submitted to MassDOT following the hearing:

By email: MassDOTProjectManagement@dot.state.ma.us
By mail: MassDOT Project Management, 10 Park Plaza, Suite 7550, Boston, MA 02116 (Project File No. 609527)

Submissions intended for the official record must be received within 10 business days (14 calendar days) after the hearing.

Accessibility

The hearing will be accessible to individuals with disabilities, with accommodations and language assistance available upon request through MassDOT’s Office of Diversity and Civil Rights.

The proposed I-95 improvements represent a significant infrastructure project affecting multiple communities, and officials are encouraging residents to participate in the hearing and share their input.