It looks like our number is up
MassDOT begins changing exit signs on Mass. highways
No, you’re not losing your mind.
The highway signs that countless Massachusetts motorists have memorized over the years are now being replaced.
MassDOT targeted Route 140 in the Taunton and New Bedford area first and Interstate 95 and Route 25 are up next. Uber and Lyft drivers, delivery services and the rest of us trying to just get around can study up on all the changes coming down the
pike at the state’s New Mass Exits website.
“New exit signage will include ‘Old Exit’ signs for a minimum of two years to help the public get acquainted with the new system,” the website states. Is that designed to help reduce panic attacks?
But there’s a slim ray of good news, signs at the already maddening Lowell Connector will not be changing.
As the Herald previously reported, the $2.8 million project will change signs to milepost-based exit numbering, complying with a federal requirement. Only 10% of that cost will depend on state highway funds.
According to MassDOT, the new system “allows drivers to determine distances to destinations” an “improves reporting of highway incidents, resulting in better navigation of emergency services.”
But your GPS will probably throw you off the track more than you’ll want.
But, we’re told the headache is worth it for those who like to drive all over the place — something we’re not doing during the pandemic. MassDOT says the new signs will also put Massachusetts in step with highway systems in most other states, which also use milepost numbering.
Cape and Islands state Sen. Julian Cyr called the exit renumbering system for Route 6 — which runs from the bridges out to the end of the Cape — “an example of policy that doesn’t make common sense.”
“I thought it was a stupid idea and I haven’t heard a good reason, except for the threat of withholding federal dollars,” Cyr told the Herald.
A lot of that is going around lately.