loader image

MVPC Awarded $1.2 Million ATIIP Grant

See all News

The Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (ATIIP) discretionary grant award. The $1,176,000 award will fund planning and design, reimagining transportation along the 110 corridor between the communities of Methuen, Lawrence, Haverhill, Merrimac and Amesbury. The project will envision the Route 110 corridor as an active transportation spine where walking, biking, and transit are accessible, safe, and comfortable for all. The corridor’s ultimate improvements have the potential to connect two anticipated north-south active transportation routes: the Lawrence to Manchester Rail Trail and the Border to Boston Trail.

Reimagining 110 Project Extent Map

Reimagining 110 Project Extent Map

MVPC’s Transportation Program will invite the public to re-envision 110 to create context-appropriate solutions for pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users, and other non-driving modes of transportation. Planning activities will include site visits, existing conditions analyses, traffic data collection, imaging via drone flights, and mapping analyses. MVPC will partner with municipalities and local organizations to conduct community engagement activities including online surveys, pop-up events, public meetings, and preliminary conceptual design meetings. Following execution of a grant agreement with USDOT, staff anticipate the planning process will encompass approximately two years.

Desire Path Worn by People walking and Biking Along Insufficient Infrastructure along Route 110.

Desire Path Worn by People walking and Biking Along Insufficient Infrastructure along Route 110.

“I applaud this $1.2 million grant to more safely and accessibly connect many of our Gateway Cities in the Merrimack Valley,” said Senator Edward J. Markey. “I am proud to have championed funding for active transportation infrastructure in Congress with Senator Warren, Congresswoman Trahan, and Congressman Moulton. I look forward to seeing how this grant and all the awards across the country will build safer, healthier, and more sustainable communities by enhancing infrastructure that works for all modes of transit and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.”

“This $1.2 million investment will go a long way in connecting our Northern Massachusetts communities while making travel safer, more reliable, and more sustainable,” said Senator Warren. “I am grateful for Massachusetts leaders’ partnership in securing this funding, and we’ll keep fighting to bring home investments for communities across the Commonwealth.”

“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver for communities across the Merrimack Valley, this time paving the way to better connect Methuen, Lawrence, Haverhill, Merrimac, and Amesbury,” said Congresswoman Lori Trahan. “This project will strengthen pedestrian and cyclist safety, direct additional visitors to local small businesses, and improve our region’s economy.”

“As Amesbury plans for the future, it is essential that we invest in infrastructure that supports safe and accessible transportation for everyone—whether they’re walking, biking, using public transit, or driving,” said Amesbury Mayor Gove. “The Reimagine 110 project is an exciting opportunity to better connect Amesbury with our neighboring communities and strengthen our local economy. Amesbury has long valued its partnership with MVPC, and I’m proud to see us working together to create a safer, more connected multimodal transportation network that benefits the entire Merrimack Valley.”

“We are honored to receive this grant from the Federal Highway Administration’s Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program. This funding will enable us to develop a comprehensive network of safe and accessible pathways for walking and biking throughout the Merrimack Valley. By enhancing connectivity between our communities, we aim to promote healthier lifestyles, reduce traffic congestion, and improve access to essential services for all residents.” said MVPC’s Executive Director, Jerrard Whitten.

“This award highlights the shared transportation vision of Merrimack Valley’s communities, which each value safe mobility options and the expansion of opportunity for those who lack access to a personal vehicle. Given the vast differences in the built environment along 110, the project also acknowledges that, with good planning, facility continuity can still respond to context. When we collaborate as a region, we succeed.” said MVPC’s Transportation Program Manager, Patrick Reed.

Route 110 has long been a vital part of the Merrimack Valley as an essential transportation corridor. The Reimagine 110 project seeks to honor this legacy by crafting a forward-looking vision that serves all road users and supports the region’s growth and sustainability for generations. MVPC invites the Merrimack Valley community to join us on this transformative journey. Together, the region can shape a transportation spine that improves the quality of life for everyone who lives, works, and travels in the region.

For more information, contact [email protected]