MassDOT Says Casey Overpass Project One Year Behind Schedule

BOSTON (CBS) – Construction work on the Casey Overpass project in the Forest Hills and Jamaica Plain neighborhoods of Boston is now a year behind schedule according to the MassDOT.

The new system of surface roads replaces the now torn down and dilapidated overpass, a project that was the first source of controversy.

Now this announcement from the state isn't going over well with many businesses in the area who say traffic and a lack of access has affected their bottom line.

"Horrible, horrible. We want it over as soon as possible," said John Ioakimidis, owner of the Forest Hills Diner. "I've got people trying to pick up orders who can't make it here or they're stuck in backed up traffic."

The $75 million dollar project was expected to be finished this fall, but it's now delayed 366 days.

MassDOT blames delays in getting six jet fans that play a critical role in the MBTA upgrades and the new roadway construction.

"The fans must be operational before any below-grade roadway work can be performed," MassDOT said in a statement.

The department also says the snowy winter of 2015 cost the project valuable time.

"People can't cross the street, it's real, real bad," said one resident in the neighborhood.

The owner of the newly opened Grass Fed restaurant sees a silver lining in the project that will create more open space, bring the neighborhoods together, and hopefully more business.

"It's really discouraging for all of us business owners on the strip.  We're trying to develop this area in a fast-paced way," said Krista Kranyak.

It's now anything but fast-paced leading the owner of a local dry cleaning business to post a sign that says "Whoever stole the bridge please bring it back."