The Massachusetts Department of Transportation this weekend begins renumbering exits on the Mass Pike.
Natick’s exit—the one that goes to Rte. 30—will be switched from 13 to 117 when MassDOT gets to it.
According to MassDOT: “Exit signage panels will remain the same, just the numbers themselves will change. ‘Old Exit #’ signs, which will have a yellow background with black lettering, will be installed at key locations for a minimum of 2 years.”
The change is mandated by the Federal Highway Administration, and the work to change and add signs will be 90% paid for through federal funding. The Commonwealth is making changes on all freeways it owns, with work beginning in October and slated to finish in mid-2021.
The new numbering system is based on the mile posts along the Pike, and is designed to make it easier for travelers to determine distances between exits. The state is working with mapping applications to stay in synch.
Massachusetts is one of just a few states that doesn’t already use the milepost-based number system.
The sign changes will take some getting used to for travelers, but businesses may also need to update their websites and marketing materials to include the updated exit numbers.
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