The bottleneck

Westborough - As construction moves forward on the Bay State Commons shopping complex, local residents are buzzing about impending congestion in the downtown area. The sprawling mall contains some 300,000-plus square feet and 10 buildings, yet offers precious little access either directly or via surrounding roadways.

Between overtaxed single-lane roadways, the congested rotary and the notorious railroad bridge, residents familiar with the downtown area are hoping for the best, but bracing for the worst.