Traffic pattern to change in Northampton

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation wants to hear what you have to say about plans to change traffic patterns in Northampton. 

The Rt. 9/Damon Road intersection is a gateway to Northampton, Hadley and Amherst. But drivers say this busy intersection can be a major hazard.  

• View Live Traffic Cameras in Northampton

Doris Ilnicki lives in South Hadley but frequently drives through the intersection in Northampton as she crosses the Coolidge Bridge.  She says she often runs into traffic backups.

“Damon Road, it's backed up almost all the way up to Hadley, every single day, they could use another whole road going that way,” said Ilnicki on Wednesday morning.   

That's why Transportation officials held a public hearing at the Bridge Street School in Northampton on Tuesday, as they try to figure out a solution to the number of traffic problems.  

“People all jamming trying to make the line, cutting, it's too much.  If you are in one lane and the other is taking the same lane with you, it seems like they pull into your lane,” said Patricia Clogston of Belchertown.   

But congestion is not the only challenge. A 2009 study found car crashes were most common at the exit 19 off-ramp; which leads traffic from 91 North to Route 9 and Damon Road.  Among the planned improvements are a roundabout and added traffic lanes.

“Either the roundabout or extra lanes, all I can say is there is a problem there. I drive there several times a week, and anything to ease the congestion would be very desirable,” said Hadley resident Douglas Vickers, of the project that's been in the works since 2009.    

Transportation officials say these plans are just projections, nothing has been approved. They are still seeking comment from drivers, if you travel this area often click here .