Vassar Streetscape West

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landscape architect	Carol R. Johnson & Associates, Inc.
design features	cycle track new light fixtures new young Lace Bark Elm trees a crosswalk, complete with a speed table, in front of Simmons Hall

The revitalization of Vassar Street transformed it into a vibrant urban boulevard. The project significantly improved the experience for pedestrians and bicyclists, with wider sidewalks, improved crosswalks, and a bicycle track separated from the roadway by planted trees.

The Vassar Streetscape West project, designed by Carol R. Johnson Associates, landscape architects, is made possible by a generous gift from the family of MIT alumnus and emeritus trustee Richard P. Simmons.

The project was the product of an intensive collaboration between the City of Cambridge and MIT. The majority of the work was completed in 2008. When finished in 2009, it realized the vision for the entirety of Vassar Street that started with Vassar Street East, completed in 2004.

Vassar Streetscape East, which connects Main Street to Massachusetts Avenue, features a cycle track, new light fixtures and new young trees. Vassar Street West, running from Massachusetts Avenue to Audrey Street, also offers a cycle track, new light fixtures, new Lace Bark Elm trees, chosen for their "canopy" effect once grown, and a crosswalk, complete with a speed table, in front of Simmons Hall.

Project Team 

Project Managers/MIT	Richard Quade
construction management	Camp Dresser & McKee, Inc.
civil engineers	Judith Nitsch Engeering, Inc.
utility engineers	SEA Consultants, Inc.
transportation engineers	Rizzo Associates, Inc.
lighting design	Peter Coxe Associates
general contractor	McCourt Contracting Company, Inc.