This spring, a major, two-year construction project is slated for Western Ave., the road used to access and exit Westfield State University. The University has been informed that the City of Westfield will begin work in April. This project will likely have a significant impact on vehicular and pedestrian traffic involving University students, faculty, staff, and guests.
The extensive project will result in much-needed improvements and upgrades. During the first year of construction (2019) much of the work will revolve around utilities and drainage improvements; while the work in the second year (2020) will focus on improved, wider sidewalks and a new roadway.
Westfield State’s Facilities and Operations department attends regular construction meetings that convene every other week for this project. Facilities and Operations Staff Associate Andrew Montanaro serves as the University’s liaison with that group and attends all meetings.
While the University is able to participate in ongoing meetings, the project is being managed by the City of Westfield and the Department of Transportation.
Westfield State realizes that this project will inconvenience the full campus community. Collective patience will be necessary as the project begins and lasts over the two-year period. According to Montanaro, a website is currently being developed that will serve as the centralized location for information and updates on this project.
Updates and notices will also be shared regularly via University email and through social media. When construction begins, electronic signs near the construction site will also provide daily updates on impacts to vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Look for more information on this project to be included in NewsWise, including a link to the project’s dedicated website.