Commotion hit the streets of Middleton early this morning as a truck spill on RT-114 near 75 South Main St. threw local traffic into chaos, with authorities confirming the westbound closure of two lanes and warning motorists to brace for slowdowns. According to a post on X from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), the incident occurred early, triggering immediate response from traffic officials to manage the developing situation.

Truck Spill in #Middleton on RT-114 WB-near 75 South Main St. Two lanes WB Closed. Expect delays.

— Mass. Transportation (@MassDOT) March 28, 2024

Drivers found themselves caught in a bumper-to-bumper gridlock, with the potential for extending delays as cleanup crews worked the scene, the pressure on morning commuters compounded by the urgency and the need for swift detouring around the impacted stretch of roadway, what was once a free-flowing channel of morning routine now became a bottleneck of frustration and delay. Details on the cause of the spill or the type of materials dispersed across the tarmac have not been disclosed by officials at the time.

The spill's impact was felt beyond just the immediate vicinity, with ripple effects disturbing the harmonious flow of the surrounding local arteries. Businesses near the spill site were also likely to face the spill's repercussions, with potential delays in deliveries and customer traffic that rely heavily on this main Westbound conduit.

While MassDOT crews and first responders were on the scene, addressing the spill, ensuring safety, and managing the traffic mitigation strategy, which included rerouting vehicles and providing guidance to alternative routes, they have yet to release an estimated time for when the lanes will be reopened to traffic, this led to discontent among the motorists who found their daily schedules upended by the unexpected roadblock and the time lost idling behind wheels instead of progressing through their day.

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has advised motorists to seek alternate routes to avoid the area if possible and to stay tuned for updates as the situation progresses. Drivers in and around Middleton should expect ongoing delays until the site is cleared, and normal traffic flow is restored, while the cause of the incident remains under investigation.