The project started construction in May 2019, with a total project cost of $4.2 million that includes design, environmental remediation, construction oversight and construction. The City of Springfield contributed $1,116,902 to the project; the Commonwealth of Massachusetts contributed $2,770,000; and $210,008 in CDBG – Disaster Recovery funds.
Mayor Sarno stated, “The reconfiguration of the traffic flow at Six Corners was key to the rebirth and revitalization of the neighborhood. I have driven through this roundabout numerous times and the improvements speak for themselves – with rave reviews from residents and businesses. This project continues my administration’s commitment of enhancing the area since the June 2011 tornado. This vital project will go a long way to improving public safety and will better the quality of life for our residents and business community. Coupled with the Central Street traffic reconfiguration and Ruth Elizabeth Park improvements, this is more good news for our Maple High Six Corners neighborhood.”
DPW Director Chris Cignoli added, “In 2011 following the June 1 tornado, the City embarked on a major public reach-out effort that resulted in over 18 public meetings with residents along the impacted corridor from downtown to Sixteen Acres. Residents were asked to ‘dream big’ in making suggestions for the re-build of their neighborhood. This project truly became the brainchild of the neighborhood and started as a circle on a map, and was immediately supported by the entire neighborhood. It took the City six years to secure the funding and we are now happy to see this dream become reality”.
City Councilor Melvin Edwards stated, “As the City Councilor for Maple High/Six Corners, I greatly appreciate the Administration’s efforts in ensuring a safer solution for drivers and residents of the neighborhood. My thanks to Mayor Sarno, DPW Director Chris Cignoli and his team, Governor Baker, State Representative Bud Williams, my colleagues on the City Council, the construction company Gagliarducci, the Bartlett’s and all the residents and businesses of Maple High/Six Corners. I am also looking forward to the upcoming infrastructure improvements on Central Street and at our Ruth Elizabeth Park.”
State Representative Bud Williams added, “I want to thank my constituents for their patience as this roundabout project has finally become a reality after many years of public meetings and after hearing the concerns of our residents. This project, which is funded by the Commonwealth and the City, is a complete overhaul of this roadway aimed at improving public safety and the quality of life for our residents. My thanks and appreciation goes out to Governor Baker, Mayor Sarno, DPW Director Chris Cignoli, the City Council especially Councilors Melvin Edwards and Malo Brown, Gagliarducci Construction, and all the residents of Maple High Six Corners and Old Hill.”
The new design for the intersection replaces the signalized intersection with a roundabout, adds traffic calming features, streetscape improvements, pedestrian improvements and signage. The work involved with the project consisted of full depth roadway construction, installation of the proposed roundabout, construction of concrete sidewalks, wheelchair ramps, driveways, drainage improvements, conduit, granite curbing, landscape trees and pavement markings.
