Good news for Chelsea-area residents, Massport will reopen the Tobin Bridge's Beacon Street Ramp but with limited vehicle access, beginning Monday, August 6 at 9 a.m. Only private passenger vehicles, taxis, buses and commercial vehicles under eight tons, such as delivery vans, will be permitted to use the ramp.

"Safety is Massport's primary concern. Working with community and public safety officials we have an approved traffic plan that will limit access to the Beacon Street Ramp," said Massport's Executive Director and CEO Virginia Buckingham.

Trucks over eight tons are excluded from the Beacon Street Ramp and will be directed into Chelsea by Truck Detour signage located on all major Tobin Bridge access and egress roads including Routes 93, 99, 16 and 60.

This roadway plan was developed by Massport, Mass. Highway, Chelsea's and Boston's Departments of Transportation, public safety officials and outside engineering consultants in meetings held in response to community requests. The Beacon Street Ramp was closed in May.

"These changes will undergo a three-month trial period. State and local police will monitor the routes," said Mary Jane O'Meara, director of the Tobin Bridge.

The new traffic design is subject to change based on community needs and safety.

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