Why Are Boston Roads So Confusing?

Posted on August 31, 2017

boston courierBoston, Massachusetts is known for three things; love for our sports teams, delicious seafood, and our confusing roadways. For those of you who don’t frequent Boston but found yourself frustrated while driving through the city, we don’t blame you. There’s a reason myths exist about the cows creating the paths we follow today, but it couldn’t be further from the truth! Though not ideal for truck couriers, there’s a reason these roads exist the way they do!

Most major cities in America are set up on the traditional “grid street plan.” Grid street plans date back to nearly 2600 BC but only were introduced to the United States in 1638. This system requires streets to run at right angles into one another to help streamline potential routes for those on the road. By using the cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west), drivers and bikers can more easily navigate through a city without requiring complicated directions.

So, how is this important to Boston?

This infrastructure development is important Boston because it only partially exists on a grid system. Boston was founded in 1630 and quickly became a bustling location where people congregated for business and to live. Due to the forestry, shipping trade, natural obstacles such as marshes and hills, and potential attacks from outsiders, many roads were built around these hurdles to continue life as usual. So, instead of the roads being designed for travel in 2017, they were created for other necessities in the 17th century.

The Back Bay, Dorchester Heights, and South Boston are exceptions to this rule, as they were either torn down and rebuilt or developed after the grid system was being utilized in New England. So, though it might feel like these roads were constructed without thought, they were instead created before and during arguably the most transitional years of this great city.

Fortunately, natives, commuters, and professional drivers often can navigate nearly every street with their eyes closed. Fleet Couriers has developed a list of trained and experienced couriers to ensure your packages make a safe and timely delivery, no matter where in the city.

With more questions about our services, please contact the team at Fleet Couriers today by calling (800) 734-9309.