Mason’s Mortarboard

It’s happened to me countless times before – I’m given an expected completion date of a construction project. That date comes… and goes… and the project is not completed. This is a very common occurence with all types of construction projects, but it’s hard to get upset when there are so many factors in play with construction.

HOWEVER, this time, I think it’s safe to report (but don’t hold your breath) that the Mason Pond Drive “connector road” (the road that passes by the Mason Inn and connects Rte 123 to Patriot Circle) will be open to all traffic by the end of October. Actually, I was told that project coordinators would be “very, very surprised if the road is not open by October 26.”

I know it’s just a road, but given the often congested traffic patterns in the region, especially at peak drive times, this one little road could make a noticeable difference for all of us who drive to campus. Traffic that frequently backs up on eastbound Braddock turning into campus will have alternate access off of Rte 123. Also, vehicles exiting campus and heading to northbound 123 will be able to get off campus quicker.

Chief of Police Mike Lynch says “this is one of the most anticipated transportation improvements happening at Mason.” Though it would have been nice to have this road open at the beginning of the school year, it’s better late than never.