"At-Grade" Proponents Make Their Case (Video)

Persons who prefer that a bridge not be rebuilt once the Casey Overpass is torn down rallied Friday evening. Stationing themselves at various parts of the project, they held signs to indicate how traffic flow and quality of life might change if the state chooses the "at-grade" option for the future of Forest Hills.

The aging overpass is going to be demolished and the state has whittled alternatives down to two: rebuild a smaller, shorter two-lane bridge or have no bridge at all, putting all traffic "at-grade."

Pete Stidman, a former JP resident active with the Boston Cyclists Union, said about 26 "at-grade" supporters participated during the evening. He said the group gathered about 50 petition signatures.

The state had originally said it would make its decision public this week. Instead, they will delay until at least January. The state also had extended the public comment period, which has since closed.

A main point the proponents of the "at-grade" solution make is that under that plan, the Southwest Corridor Park would be extended, creating a park they say would be the size of Copley Square.

The bridge alternative has open space benefits as well, creating more green space between a new bridge and Forest Hills station than exists now.