Boston selects Bowman for controversial transportation project amid public concern

In the United States, Bowman Consulting Group Ltd. has been awarded a contract by the City of Boston's Transportation Department to lead the planning and engineering for transportation improvements in both Roslindale and Maverick Squares. Announced on December 11, 2024, this initiative aims to foster safer and more accessible urban spaces, focusing on multimodal transportation options that accommodate a growing base of pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users in these vibrant neighborhoods. The project is especially crucial given the high visitor traffic these commercial hubs experience, which drives the need for effective and sustainable transportation solutions. The Roslindale and Maverick Squares are located approximately 7.5 miles apart, each serving as vital community and commercial centers in their respective areas. The initiative seeks to improve safety, accessibility, and connectivity through a collaborative effort involving local stakeholders and community engagement strategies. In an effort to support local businesses and enhance neighborhood vitality, the focus will include creating community-informed designs that reflect the diverse needs of residents and visitors alike. Bowman will build on prior planning efforts within these neighborhoods to develop a thorough understanding of existing conditions and identify potential opportunities for enhancing public spaces and transportation networks. This process includes innovative outreach approaches that encourage community participation in shaping the project outcomes. Additionally, two low-cost tactical improvements will be implemented as demonstration projects in 2025, focusing on pedestrian and cyclist safety, improving transit access, and enhancing the overall public space quality in the squares. This initiative is aligned with the City of Boston's broader goals outlined in Imagine Boston 2030 and Go Boston 2030, which emphasize the importance of creating safe, accessible, and connected communities. Through targeted improvements at critical hubs like Roslindale and Maverick Squares, the project aims to bolster local business growth while meeting the transportation needs of an ever-evolving urban resident base. The engagement of Bowman Consulting Group and its partners reflects a commitment to sustainable infrastructure development, paving the way for a vibrant and inclusive urban future.