Residents and commuters in Salisbury, Massachusetts, are navigating the challenges of a significant road construction project on Route 1, which aims to improve traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and overall infrastructure. The project is being overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MA DOT) and is part of a larger effort to enhance the area’s roadways as well as ensuring the safety of the pedestrians. As a result it has caused temporary inconveniences, including a lot of potholes in the roads.
“My mom got a nail in her tire from the [Salisbury] construction,” said Salisbury resident Michael Coco, reflecting the frustration of many drivers. Town officials have advised motorists to proceed with caution. “Drive slowly through this area for the safety of the crew and for your vehicle,” said Salisbury Official Lisa Pearson in an email.
The construction zone, which stretches from Schoolhouse Lane to the Seabrook line, has disrupted daily commutes and created lots of traffic jams. However, Pearson emphasized the need for patience. “The roadwork is a puzzle; it takes time and requires patience from the workers and the public.”
Despite the current short-term challenges, the project promises significant long-term benefits. Following the completion of a sewer line project by the Town of Salisbury last year, MA DOT began the three-year road reconstruction and sidewalk improvement initiative in 2023. “As soon as we finished, MA DOT started the road reconstruction and sidewalk project,” Pearson explained.
The upgrades include the installation of two rotaries to replace traffic lights, designed to improve traffic flow, along with bike lanes and sidewalks aimed at increasing pedestrian safety. With two more years remaining in the project timeline, these enhancements are expected to make Route 1 safer and more efficient for residents and visitors.
For now, officials recommend staying informed about construction updates, planning alternate routes when possible, and driving cautiously to minimize risks and possible damages. Once completed, the Route 1 improvements will offer an improved roadway that supports smoother traffic and a safer experience for all.
