Old Ferry Road Project

Preliminary Design Overview

The City of Methuen is advancing the design for improvements to Old Ferry Road, a critical industrial and commercial corridor that serves local businesses and supports economic activity in the area. The purpose of this project is to modernize aging infrastructure, improve roadway safety and functionality, address longstanding drainage and erosion issues, and plan for future utility needs in a coordinated and responsible manner.

Roadway Improvements

The project proposes a full depth reconstruction of Old Ferry Road within the project limits. The existing pavement has deteriorated due to age, heavy truck traffic, and drainage related impacts. The proposed improvements include a reconstructed roadway with consistent lane widths, improved geometry, and enhanced structural capacity to better accommodate commercial and truck traffic. These upgrades are intended to improve safety, drivability, and long-term durability of the roadway.

Drainage and Stormwater Management

A major focus of the project is addressing stormwater runoff and erosion issues that currently impact the roadway and adjacent properties. The preliminary design includes a combination of closed drainage systems and open swales to better collect, convey, and treat stormwater. These improvements are being designed to meet City and state stormwater standards, reduce erosion, and provide more predictable drainage performance during storm events.

Utility Coordination and Future Sewer Planning

The project includes extensive coordination with existing utilities located within the corridor, including overhead and underground infrastructure. As part of the preliminary design effort, the City is also evaluating the feasibility of providing future sanitary sewer service to businesses along Old Ferry Road. While a final decision has not yet been made, the preliminary planning efforts have evaluated potential alignments and cost considerations to support future City planning and policy discussions.

Right-of-Way and Long-Term Public Access

Portions of Old Ferry Road are not currently within a formally accepted public right-of-way. The project includes planning for the establishment of a consistent roadway right-of-way to support long-term public ownership, maintenance, and infrastructure investment. This effort will involve coordination with abutting property owners and is a key step toward securing the roadway’s future as a reliable public asset.

Environmental Considerations

The preliminary design accounts for nearby wetlands, waterways, and other environmental resources. Impacts are being carefully evaluated, and the project will proceed through the appropriate local and state environmental permitting processes. The goal is to balance necessary infrastructure improvements with responsible environmental stewardship.

Next Steps

The plans currently posted represent a Preliminary Design and are intended to support coordination with City departments, regulatory agencies, utilities, and stakeholders. As the project advances, additional refinement will occur, including environmental permitting, right-of-way coordination, and further evaluation of utility improvements. Public input and City guidance will continue to play an important role as the design progresses toward final plans and eventual construction.