Shared Streets

The Town of Andover Shared streets program allows for temporary modifications to bus stops, curbs, parking areas, sidewalks, streets and other public spaces in support of public health, safe mobility, revitalization, and strengthened commerce. The Andover Planning Division received a grant from the Shared Streets and Spaces Program, administered by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), which allows municipalities and public transit authorities to quickly implement improvements to plazas, sidewalks, curbs, streets, bus stops, parking areas, and other public spaces. 

The Town of Andover is actively working to implement temporary Shared Streets projects in phases and with flexible tools, such as temporary signage and cones in order to be sure that we get it right and that we can be responsive to resident needs and experiences. Improvements made in Andover include:

  • Installation of bike racks in the downtown
  • Outdoor dining program
  • Temporary, traffic calming installations

Shared Street Pilot Goals

The Andover Shared Streets program allows people to walk safely on the street and feel comfortable as local vehicular traffic passes at slow speeds. Streets with traffic calming installations remain open to local vehicle traffic, deliveries, and emergency vehicles, while discouraging cut-through vehicle traffic. Slower speeds and thru traffic provide safer streets with:

  • Space for safer physical distancing 
  • A sense of place where people feel more comfortable and welcome walking and biking 
  • Lower traffic speeds and volume
  • Collect data and public feedback
  • Safer access to grocery stores, schools and other locations in town for those that bike, roll or walk

The temporary modifications provide an opportunity to assess infrastructure modifications without making a large investment. As we see how the streets are working, get feedback from residents, and adjust to the changing business operations and commuting patterns during this time, we anticipate making changes to shared streets. 

Current Projects

Maple Avenue

After residents voiced concern over excessive speeding and cut-through traffic, the Planning Department embarked on a series of neighborhood meetings, internal working group meetings, and site walks to better understand resident concerns. The Traffic working group which consists of staff from the Andover Police Department, Department of Public Works Engineering Department and Planning analyzed resident feedback and traffic condition to create traffic Pilot traffic claiming plans. 



Maple Avenue Shared Street sign

Maple Avenue Survey

Thank you to all residents near Maple Avenue who provided feedback on their experience during the temporary traffic calming project to help determine the next steps. The survey closed on December 29th, 2022. 

Project Plans

  1. Maple Avenue Traffic Calming Plan