I would add that maybe traffic calming in the form of a raised crossing at the head of the path to Cambridge Discovery park, where many pedestrians and cyclists try to cross to get to the Minuteman path heading out to Arlington and beyond. That crossing is dangerous, and it ignores human nature to expect people to go all the way down to the official crosswalk and double back. Plus, as Michael points out, the exit ramp needs traffic calming anyway (cars go way above the posted speed limit whenever they can), so why not kill two proverbial birds with one stone, and not kill any additional real birds...

The density of traffic jams, mostly cars, and the continuing rise in the number of commuters generally and to the Alewife area specifically, calls for more commuters on buses. For example, all together the 8 MBTA bus routes to the Alewife T carry fewer commuters than any one of the following MBTA #s: 71, or 73, or 77, or 1.

Bus lanes on the access roads connecting the Alewife T and Route 2 would make buses more attractive to commuters. In over three years of conversation, there has been no priority for such bus lanes. Call the Secretary of MASSDOT, Stephanie Pollack and respectfully assert the priority. Call 857-368-4636 and ask for the Office of Secretary Pollack.

To anyone who objects, point out that the Access roads (without parking or bicycles) are wider than Concord Avenue within 5 blocks of Huron Avenue. Narrow Concord Avenue has two way bus, truck, and car traffic with parking and bicycles.

Thinking more about traffic calming on the Alewife Station Access Road I was wondering if the best solution both for traffic calming and to not impact too much on the needs of emergency vehicles would be to turn the current pedestrian crossing at the Fitchburg Cutoff into a raised crossing and while that might take some time, a flashing LED "Slow" sign could be a good first step.

I agree that a raised crossing at the Fitchburg Cutoff Path with a flashing sign would be an excellent traffic calming idea. I walk and run here regularly, and a raised crossing would help a great deal to improve safety for humans and wildlife.

Sure, speed tables. Still, it's the Secretary of MASSDOT who sets the priority. The access roadways of the Alewife T seem to be largely owned by MASSDOT.

(AND) For a bus lane, taking a wide one lane from the two lane space on the access roads would accomplish: moving more commuters on the fixed road space, and narrowing the car lane. Transportation Engineers insist that narrowing lanes tends to reduce speeds.

Thank you for reporting this issue to the City of Cambridge. Unfortunately, the City is not responsible for addressing issues on state property, but we've shared this report with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and asked them to review. Please contact MassDOT at 877-MA-DOT-GOV for direct follow-up about this.