By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter
Marlborough – Preliminary work on the reconstruction of Simarano Drive began in October 2014 and continued until mid-December when construction crews completed preparation work on the drainage system and related areas. City Engineer Evan Pilachowski noted he is pleased with the progress that has been made.
“I expect the drainage system to be completed in early spring when workers will also prepare the earth and resurface and widen the roads – moving along to completion by the end of summer,” he said.
The city received a $1.6 million grant from the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development to fund the project that runs through the industrial park area at 200 Forest Park.
Included with the full depth reconstruction of Simarano Drive are the addition of a near mile length of sidewalk along the road and a bicycle path, achieving the “Complete Streets” standard set by Mass. Department of Transportation. There will also be new traffic signals, new signage and street lighting to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety.
Located on Simarano Drive, which connects with Interstate 495, are major businesses including TJX Companies, Quest Diagnostics and Atlantic Management Corporation, the latter of which has begun developing the former Hewlett Packard site with a mixed-development program that includes office space, an apartment complex and a Hilton Garden Inn.
