Cross Street traffic restrictions announced

A new program to restrict vehicle access along Cross Street from Hanover Street to Salem Street in the North End is in effect. Under this program, vehicles will no longer have access to the center sidewalk area.

Residents at several neighborhood meetings scheduled by Boston City Councilor Sal LaMattina and the Boston Transportation Department expressed public safety concerns for pedestrians in the area that leads to the North End.

Reportedly, the change will greatly enhance the pedestrian experience for the hundreds of residents and visitors who use this sidewalk daily and presently have to navigate through parked cars and moving traffic according to information provided by the Councilor’s office.

State Representative Aaron Michlewitz was also a key figure in the development of the Cross Street plan which will be closing the vehicular entrance to the area.

Since the completion of the Central Artery Project, this sidewalk has been cordoned off by bollards which created a zone in the middle of the sidewalk for general parking, deliveries and overnight resident parking.

"The creation of a pedestrian plaza along this corridor will enable visitors and residents to more fully enjoy the charm of the historic North End and the Freedom Trail," stated Mayor Thomas M. Menino. "These improvements will also allow local business to attract more customers and expand outdoor opportunities."

Both NEWRA and NEWNC were part of the recommended changes.