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The Massachusetts Highway Department today announced it has launched a 24-hour highway hotline for people to call when they spot locations of concern on our state roads. People are encouraged to utilize the #321 system to call in concerns about catch basins, manholes and other critical issues on highways throughout the Commonwealth.
"MassHighway crews monitor our highways around the clock but we can't be in all places at all times," said MassHighway Commissioner Luisa Paiewonsky. "When drivers come across a location of concern, we want to know about it. The #321 system will ensure we receive the message, so we can address the issue as soon as possible."
The #321 phone system is a 24-hour service manned through MassHighway's Traffic Operations Center. People can call in their concerns by dialing #321 on a mobile phone or 888-359-9595. If the location identified by the caller does not fall under MassHighway's jurisdiction, the information will be forwarded to the appropriate state or municipal agency. Drivers are advised to pull onto the shoulder, completely out of travel lanes, before making a call.
Information can also be submitted through the MassHighway website Feedback Page, by visiting www.mass.gov/mhd and clicking on "Contact Us." The Feedback Page is manned during working hours.
In the wake of recent highway incidents, MassHighway has begun an inspection of catch basins and manhole covers on highways throughout the Commonwealth. The inspection process includes covers that are both within and outside of driving lanes. While the weight of the covers typically keeps them secure, loose covers can be secured by other methods, including welding. Over the past 5 days, approximately 50 covers in the greater Boston area have been welded shut.
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c. 2009 Commonwealth of Massachusetts