MASSACHUSETTS TURNPIKE Meaning and
Definition
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The Massachusetts Turnpike refers to a major toll highway that spans across the state of Massachusetts in the United States. Also known by its official name, Interstate 90 (I-90), it serves as a critical transportation artery connecting the eastern and western regions of the state. The Massachusetts Turnpike is approximately 138 miles long and passes through various cities and towns, including Boston, Worcester, and Springfield.
The Turnpike was initially constructed in the 1950s as a four-lane highway but has since undergone expansions and modernizations to accommodate the growing traffic demands. Today, it consists of six lanes, three in each direction, and is divided by a barrier or grass median. The highway allows for high-speed travel, offering a faster alternative to local roads and facilitating efficient transportation across the state.
The Massachusetts Turnpike is a toll road, which means that motorists are required to pay a fee to use it. The tolls vary based on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle, with different rates applicable to passenger cars, trucks, and motorcycles. These tolls contribute to the cost of maintaining and operating the Turnpike, including paving, snow removal, and bridge maintenance.
Overall, the Massachusetts Turnpike serves as a vital component of the state's transportation infrastructure, providing a convenient and efficient route for motorists traversing Massachusetts. It offers a direct connection between major cities, stimulates economic growth, and plays a crucial role in facilitating commerce and travel throughout the region.
Etymology of MASSACHUSETTS TURNPIKE
The word "Massachusetts Turnpike" is a compound term that consists of two components: "Massachusetts" and "Turnpike".
The term "Massachusetts" refers to the state located in the New England region of the United States. The origin of this name can be traced back to the Algonquian Native American tribe known as the Massachusett, which means "at the large hill" or "at the great hill" in the Massachusett language.
The term "Turnpike" has its origins in medieval England where it referred to a spiked barrier gate that allowed the passage of authorized travelers while preventing livestock from straying. Over the years, the term evolved to refer to a road on which tolls were collected, often marked by turnstiles or pike gates.
