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Andover Secures $500K Grant for Pedestrian Improvements

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, March 11th 2026 at 10:06 GMT by Patch
      Locale: UNITED STATES

ANDOVER, MA - March 11th, 2026 - The town of Andover is poised to significantly enhance its pedestrian infrastructure following the recent award of a $500,000 grant from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). While the immediate focus is a crucial sidewalk project on Ballard Road, town officials are framing this as a pivotal step in a broader, long-term initiative to create a comprehensive and safe pedestrian network throughout Andover.

The grant will directly fund the construction of new sidewalk sections and vital improvements to existing pathways along Ballard Road, specifically tackling longstanding gaps in pedestrian connectivity between Memorial Park and the Shrub Oak neighborhood. This particular stretch has been a point of concern for residents for several years, culminating in a petition submitted in 2022 demanding improved safety measures. The grant addresses those concerns head-on.

"This isn't just about filling in a few sidewalk gaps," explains Town Manager Andrew Flanagan. "It's about building a truly walkable community. Connecting Memorial Park and Shrub Oak with a safe, accessible sidewalk is a fundamental step, but it's also a symbolic one. It signals our commitment to prioritizing pedestrian safety and creating a town where residents of all ages and abilities can confidently navigate on foot."

Construction is slated to begin in the spring of 2026 and is projected to take several months. The town has already begun the process of soliciting bids from qualified contractors and is committed to minimizing disruption to residents during the construction phase. Town officials are promising regular updates to the public regarding project timelines and potential traffic impacts.

However, the Ballard Road project is just the beginning. The town is actively exploring additional funding opportunities, including federal grants and local fundraising initiatives, to expand the pedestrian network beyond Ballard Road. Preliminary plans include extending sidewalks along Main Street, connecting residential areas to the downtown business district, and improving crosswalks and pedestrian signals at key intersections.

The impetus for this town-wide focus on pedestrian infrastructure stems from several converging factors. Firstly, Andover has experienced considerable residential growth in recent years, leading to increased pedestrian traffic. Secondly, there's a growing awareness of the health and environmental benefits of walking and cycling. Andover is committed to promoting active transportation as a key component of its sustainability plan. Finally, the town recognizes the importance of accessibility for all residents, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families with young children.

"A walkable town is a vibrant town," states Councilor Maria Sanchez, chair of the town's Transportation Committee. "It fosters a sense of community, supports local businesses, and improves the overall quality of life for everyone. We want Andover to be a place where people want to walk, not just have to walk."

The town is also considering innovative approaches to pedestrian infrastructure, such as "complete streets" designs that incorporate dedicated bike lanes, wider sidewalks, and traffic calming measures. They're also looking at improving lighting along pedestrian routes to enhance safety during evening hours. Public input will be a crucial component of the planning process, with several town hall meetings and online surveys planned throughout the year to gather feedback from residents.

The $500,000 grant is seen as a significant victory for Andover, demonstrating the town's ability to successfully compete for state funding. Town officials are hopeful that this success will pave the way for future grants and investments in infrastructure improvements. The Ballard Road project is expected to not only improve pedestrian safety but also serve as a model for future pedestrian infrastructure projects in Andover and beyond.