Crews continue work on the Western Avenue utility crossing which involved temporarily relocating a section of Kresge Way during the summer of 2022. Pedestrian and vehicular shifts on and around Western Avenue to accommodate underground utility trenches and work zones are in place. The work will continue into fall 2023 and is being coordinated with University operations.
Kresge Way Temporary Relocation
As part of Harvard’s infrastructure improvements in Allston, the University has extended thermal piping and electrical/telecommunications duct banks from the District Energy Facility across Western Avenue to Kresge Way, the main driveway into the HBS campus. An interim drive further west off Western Avenue has replaced the original drive.
Western Avenue Utility Crossing
Work for the utility crossing at Western Avenue will allow for expansion of Harvard’s Allston energy infrastructure and is in the final phase. Supporting vehicular, cycling and pedestrian flow, a phased approach is being used to install hot water and chilled water supply and return piping, telecommunications and electrical duct banks across the width of Western Ave. The construction activity consists of six phases to excavate trenches the width of Western Avenue. Only a third of the roadway is a construction zone allowing for two, open vehicular traffic lanes at all times, one in each direction.
- The final work zone is on the southern (ERC site) side of the roadway as crews finish backfilling. Plans are being finalized to return the roadway to full use in the near future.
- The southern sidewalk has closed in coordination with the current work zone. All pedestrians will be guided to use the sidewalk adjacent to Harvard Business School.
- Sidewalks will be restored.
- Appropriate signage and police details or workers will be in place. Work is scheduled to take place in close coordination with Harvard Business School/Housing/Transportation operations.
- During project hours Monday through Friday from 7AM to 3PM (at times may extend to 6PM), the work will generate noise due to the presence of work crews and the use of construction equipment.
Kresge Way Gas Line Relocation Phase 2 and Extension of Thermal Pipes and Electrical Duct Bank
The project team is reviewing work plans/site logistics with Harvard Business School/Transportation/Housing and are targeting to begin work the week of June 19.
DEF Thermal, Utility Installation and Road Work
- National Grid will be working on Western Avenue between Trotting Avenue and Kresge Way on the ERC side of the road for the next several weeks excavating and installing piping for an upsized gas service.
- The interim DEF access drive behind the construction fence at the Enterprise Research Campus (ERC) has shifted off Western Avenue to Trotting Avenue near Hague Street as crews work on Milestone Street (the former East Drive). Plans are underway to relocate the drive back to Milestone Street.
- All are working in coordination with National Resilience.
- Other utility work continues inside the ERC site including the installation of a large drainage pipe (NASDEP).
- Crews are raising castings on interior ERC roadways.
South Campus Drive Utility Work
South Campus Drive and the sidewalk near the McCurdy Track is restored and reopened. The interim roadway will remain in place for use in future demolition/construction/utility work. Phase 2 planning is underway.
92 Seattle Street
Fencing has been installed around the perimeter as crews prepare for the upcoming renovation project.
175 North Harvard Street
- Project trailers are occupied in the 201 Western Avenue lot.
- Crews are working on temporary electrical power areas.
