The vital Route 107 bridge spanning the Saugus River, a critical passage for commuters between Saugus and Lynn in eastern Massachusetts, has been shut down indefinitely for repairs after a recent inspection revealed a significant structural crack. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) issued the closure announcement yesterday, putting a stop to any vehicular traffic over the aging bridge, although sidewalks will remain accessible for pedestrians and cyclists.
Local businesses and commuters are bracing for the repercussions of an extended closure. Among those affected is April Young, a bartender at the Fox Hill Yacht Club, who anticipates a longer commute to work. "At least like 20 minutes earlier than I usually do, cause I'm going to have to cut through Lynn, down Boston Street, and then Lincoln Ave.," Young explained to NBC10 Boston. She anticipates increased traffic congestion as "Everybody's going to be doing that, so it is going to suck."
The closure follows the discovery of a crack in the bridge, which serves as a temporary replacement until a more permanent solution can be established. MassDOT is working to implement detours while keeping the public informed about the ongoing situation. Jack Shah, the manager of the nearby eatery Papa Jack’s, told WHDH, “People are going to have a lot of problems and it’s gonna be congested.” Shah expressed his worries about the structure's safety and the potential decrease in customers stopping by on their commutes due to rerouted traffic.
Concerns extend to other local businesses such as Mell’s Tire and Auto Service, positioned just past the now-blockaded bridge. Employee Tom Hancock commented on the situation's effect on the company's patronage. “It’s hard on the business, you know what I mean, when they close it,” Hancock remarked to WHDH. The bridge’s indefinite closure poses challenges for commuters and threatens the livelihoods of nearby small businesses.
