Congressman Stephen F. Lynch today announced that the U.S. House of Representatives has approved $750,000 in federal funding for the construction of a new off-ramp from I-95 North onto Dedham Street in Westwood. 

 

The funding is included in the Transportation Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2007.

 

"Construction of a new off-ramp is intended to relieve growing congestion at the Neponset Street and Route 128 exits, and is designed to accommodate future economic development in Westwood,” said Congressman Lynch.

 

Earlier this year, after lengthy discussions with the Westwood Board of Selectmen, Congressman Lynch approached Republican and Democratic leaders on the House Appropriations Committee to formally request federal funding for roadway improvements in Westwood.

 

"I give great credit to Chairman Pat Ahearn and Selectmen Antonellis and Nancy Hyde for bringing the concerns of Westwood to Washington.  This is how the system is supposed to work,” added Lynch.

 

Congressman Lynch was notified that the funding would be included in the final House version of the bill, which was overwhelmingly approved by the House today, and will now be sent to the Senate for its approval.

 

The I-95 North off-ramp will complement the existing on-ramp to I-95 South on Dedham Street.  Together, the ramps will offer significant traffic relief for Westwood, Canton and the entire region.

 

"The new ramp could also provide a boost to the Westwood Station Smart Growth project and give commuters, residents and employees direct access to the area,” added Lynch.  "I’m impressed that the Town of Westwood has made taken the lead in promoting local economic development, and, while having a very positive impact on the tax base, this new development will add some traffic in the area.  I am hopeful that this federal funding will enable the town's roadways to be upgraded and improved in order to accommodate future growth."

 

Lynch added, "I am pleased that the House recognized the need for improved access to Westwood's Commuter Rail Station and business district, and I'll continue to work with State Representative Bob Coughlin, Town Administrator Michael Jaillet and Chairman Patrick Ahearn, Anthony Antonellis and Nancy Hyde on similar ways to be helpful in the future.”

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