Sep 12, 2025 - Transit

Newton's new traffic light divides drivers

Steph Solis

The intersection of Needham and Charlemont streets with traffic lights, multiple cars stopped or moving, a green bike lane, crosswalks, a Marshalls store on the left, and cloudy sky overhead. — Traffic backed up at Needham and Charlemont streets. Photo: Courtesy of CBS Boston

A new traffic light in Newton is creating backups and long delays even when there's no congestion, local drivers told CBS Boston.

Why it matters: The traffic light is either a godsend for kids trying to cross the street or the bane of every driver's existence, depending on whom you ask.

Catch up quick: MassDOT installed and activated the traffic light at Needham and Charlemont this summer.

What they're saying: Some drivers say the road can already get congested and the traffic light is exacerbating delays. Others say the light creates a standstill even when Needham is empty.

One driver, Remi Bakare, told CBS Boston he hopes it will improve pedestrian safety, saying: "Kids can walk in the street now."

Neither MassDOT nor Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller responded to inquiries from Axios.

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Newton's new traffic light divides drivers

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