LANESBOROUGH- Wednesday, October 20, 2010-  As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration's Massachusetts Works program to promote job growth and long-term economic recovery, the Patrick-Murray Administration today opened westerly access to the Berkshire Mall via Route 7 in Lanesborough nearly one month ahead of schedule. The $6.3 million project is funded by the federal stimulus American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

The early completion triggers a bonus for the contractor worth nearly $230,000. The construction contract allowed for an early completion bonus of $9,550 per calendar day up to 24 days. Work on the project began in March.

 

"I want to thank the Governor and Lieutenant Governor for encouraging MassDOT to include contractor incentives in our projects. Time matters in our business,” said MassDOT Secretary & CEO Jeff Mullan. "Stimulus projects help the Administration achieve its goal of creating short- and long-term jobs, sustained regional economic growth and stronger communities and transit across Massachusetts.”

The next phase of the Route 7/8 Connector Road (formerly Berkshire Mall Drive) project involves the repaving of Partridge Road and removal of a temporary access road. The final phase to begin next year involves completion of a new easterly access driveway to Route 8. The contractor, E.T. & L. Corporation, may receive an additional incentive bonus for early completion of these two phases. The current completion date is August 19, 2011.

 

“Reinstating vehicular access to the newly reconstructed Berkshire Mall Road - on-budget and ahead of schedule - is wonderful news,” said State Senator Benjamin B. Downing (D- Pittsfield).  “The connection between routes 7 and 8 is now a safe and smooth ride, and will lead to increased economic activity in the area.”

 

MassDOT is the new, unified transportation organization created in 2009 under the historic reform legislation passed by the Legislature and signed into law by Governor Patrick.  MassDOT's four divisions are focused on delivering safe and efficient transportation services across the Commonwealth.

 

To learn more about Massachusetts Works, visit www.mass.gov/governor/massworks. For additional information on how the Patrick-Murray Administration's agenda has led Massachusetts out of a global recession sooner and stronger than the rest of the nation, visit www.mass.gov/governor/agenda.

 

For transportation news and updates, visit the MassDOT website at www.mass.gov/massdot, the MassDOT blog at www.mass.gov/blog/transportation or follow MassDOT on twitter at www.twitter.com/massdot.

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