Scope of project area
Regional Impact
As a hub for regional and local traffic, Woburn Center, particularly the main traffic circulation feature (perhaps best described as a hybrid-rotary/roundabout) known locally as the Common, experiences heavy use from drivers not just within the city but also from neighboring towns such as Stoneham, Burlington, Lexington, and Winchester. With the ever-increasing incidents of traffic congestion on I-93 and I-95, Route 38 through Woburn Center often serves as an alternate route, which in turn overburdens the traffic capacity throughout the Center.
Addressing Current Deficiencies
Traffic Operations:
Woburn Center often suffers from long traffic delays and near-gridlock conditions. The current road network configurations lead to long queues that regularly obstruct the central roadways. To help mitigate these traffic conditions, Woburn police typically have to direct traffic at the Main Street, Pleasant Street, and Winn Street intersection during P.M. peak hours.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Mobility:
Although sidewalks are present along both sides of all roads within the Center, existing pedestrian crossing locations are often unclear, making much of the Center area unsafe for pedestrians. For example, many pedestrians avoid walking to the Common, which has many historical features, including several impressive veteran memorials, due to the unclear pedestrian crosswalks. Between 2015 and 2017, four separate accidents occurred involving pedestrians trying to access the Common, and one of these accidents resulted in a fatality. According to local traffic accident data, there is strong demand for safer walking and bicycling access improvements in and around the Common area. However, the current road layout—characterized by multiple vehicle lanes and numerous conflicts—creates an unsafe environment for both motorized and non-motorized travelers. Beyond the Common, roadways are more traditional and pedestrian-friendly. By redesigning the existing unsafe traffic conditions within the area of the Common, the proposed traffic and pedestrian improvement project will introduce much-needed safer driving and walking conditions for the many thousands of commuters, travelers, and residents who navigate Woburn Center.
Economic Impact
Woburn Common is at the crossroads of several key arterial roads—Main Street, Pleasant Street, Winn Street, and Montvale Avenue—connecting the city with regional and local destinations. Woburn Center has been a focal point for new development, and improving traffic flow and safety in this area will support ongoing economic growth. Montvale Avenue serves as a key route for traffic coming from I-93 and points east, while Main Street connects to I-95. Enhancing safety, efficiency, and the overall aesthetics of these roadways will not only improve the experience for all users but will also make development sites more attractive, driving economic activity.
The proposed improvements will streamline traffic flow, reduce congestion, and create safer conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. This will encourage greater foot and bike traffic, increasing the appeal of Woburn Center for local businesses. As the area becomes more accessible and user-friendly, it will help to stimulate commercial growth, create jobs, and contribute to the city’s long-term economic development goals.
Funding
For many years, the City of Woburn has been advocating for state and federal funding to make this project a reality. Through persistent efforts, the city successfully secured the majority of funding via the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), which will cover 80% of the project costs. This substantial investment by the state and federal governments underscores the importance of enhancing safety, reducing congestion, and improving accessibility around Woburn Common.
Figure 3
Conceptual Preliminary Plans for Woburn Center
View the Conceptual Plan in more detail
Public Meetings
Other Documents