The Medford Historical Commission is asking for community input on the proposed South Medford Connector Path, a project that will connect the General Lawrence Bridge (near Wegmans) to Winthrop Street with a new path along Route 16.

The Commission supports this project and believes this missing link is an important investment in our community. However, we also believe there’s an opportunity to make it even better.

Rather than placing the path primarily alongside Route 16, we’re encouraging MassDOT and DCR to take a closer look at bringing portions of the path between the Lawrence Bridge and Cradock Bridge on Main Street closer to the Mystic River, creating a safer, quieter, and more scenic experience while strengthening the connection between people and one of Medford’s greatest natural and historic resources.

A river oriented path could:
– Better connect residents to the Mystic River
– Create a more enjoyable walking and biking experience
– Complete the vision of continuous paths along both sides of the river
– Celebrate the landscape that helped define Medford for generations

MassDOT has responded to our initial comments, and we’d like to hear from the community before submitting our next response. Join us at the next Commission meeting on Monday, July 13th at 7:00 PM via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82632918053

To prepare for the meeting, we have uploaded relevant project materials:

Whether you support our recommendations, have concerns, or simply want to learn more about the project, we welcome your input. Community voices will help ensure this project becomes not just a transportation improvement, but a lasting public space that reflects the best of Medford. Emails in advance of the meeting are always welcome (historicalcommission@medford-ma.gov) and will be included in the record as well as any response back to MassDOT.

2018 Feasibility Study proposed path alignment.

2026 Mass DOT proposal based on the latest design drawings submitted for our review.