Living in New England, we know a few things are for sure in Boston. The first, we love our sports teams. Second, we have some of the best seafood available in the country and a variety of sources to bring it to our plate. Third, our roadways are horribly congested and confusing. For those of you who don’t frequent the city often, but had the luxury of driving through, frustrations arose without a doubt. And we don’t blame you. As one of the top-rated truck couriers in the city, Fleet Couriers has come to understand the inner workings of the Boston roadways. Believe it or not, there is a reason the roads exist the way they do!
Grid Plans
Dating back to 2600 BC, the grid plan, or gridiron plan, was developed as a means of dividing blocks. This division was based upon pedestrian movement. Although most major American cities utilize the traditional grid street plan, it was not until 1638 that the system was introduced to the United States.
This system requires streets to run at right angles to each other, forming a grid. Thus, the grid is meant to help streamline potential routes for those on the road. By using the cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west), drivers and bikers can easily navigate through a city without complicated directions.
Boston’s History
However, as you may have guessed, Boston only partially exists on a grid system. As one of the earliest developed cities, Boston was founded in 1630 and quickly became a bustling location. Due to the forestry, shipping trade, marshes and hills, and potential attacks from outsiders, many roads were built around these hurdles to preserve life. So, instead of the roadway being designed for future needs, they were created for the necessities of the 17th century lifestyle.
However, Back Bay, Dorchester Heights, and South Boston are exceptions to this rule. As these areas were either torn down and rebuilt, or developed after the grid system was utilized in New England. So, though it might feel like these roads were constructed without thought; they were created before and during the most transitional years of this great city.
Fortunately, natives, commuters, and professional drivers can often navigate these streets with their eyes closed. Fleet Couriers has a team of trained, experienced, truck couriers to ensure your packages make a safe and timely delivery.
For more information about the services we provide, please contact Fleet Couriers today by calling (800) 734-9309 or visiting us online at www.fleetcouriers.com.