Andover to Waltham and back commute advice (Woburn: job, driving)

[hobbes79]

Hi

I'm currently located in Andover, MA. I've been offered a job in Waltham, MA. I'm in the process of being laid off, so perhaps it's not the right time to be picky... but I was wondering if anyone could offer insight on the commute?

It appears a couple of options exist:

1. 495>Rt3>95
2. 93>95 (done this in the middle of the day)
3. A combination of the above with a few back roads.

I've done the drive without traffic, and it seems a pretty swift 30 mins. I'm going to experiment tomorrow with simply driving to work when I normally would to see what it's like... but I was wondering if anyone out there already has experience of this drive, in both the morning and the evening? Perhaps a "secret" route that avoids some traffic!

Appreciate any help

Thanks

[ME Hokie 07]

I did the exact opposite route for a few months and while there was traffic, the only real issue was the 95 to 93 interchange. Of course I was going against most traffic. I won't be much help but I'm guessing the 93 to 95 option will still be better for you and take 45 minutes unless you get to work/leave work really early or late.

[hobbes79]

Thanks. Just tried it this morning - left at 7:00AM. 35 mins door to door. Was pretty easy actually.

When I drove back, now nearer to 8:00AM after grabbing a cup of coffee, it seemed fairly congested along I-95 and the I-93/95 transition... not stationary, but would certainly be a little slower.

So entirely do-able it seems without needing to leave absurdly early

[holden125]

Originally Posted by hobbes79

Thanks. Just tried it this morning - left at 7:00AM. 35 mins door to door. Was pretty easy actually.

When I drove back, now nearer to 8:00AM after grabbing a cup of coffee, it seemed fairly congested along I-95 and the I-93/95 transition... not stationary, but would certainly be a little slower.

So entirely do-able it seems without needing to leave absurdly early

I think that's right. A friend who comes from N. Andover to Hanscom from time to time gets off 93 at Exit 37C for Anderson/Woburn if it's really bad at the 93/128 interchange. You follow the exit ramp to the end, make a left on Commerce Way, and just take that about a mile to where you can get back onto 128, one exit closer to Waltham. It can save a couple of minutes if the interchange is bad.