Interstate 391

I-391 Information: Southern terminus is at I-91 in Springfield, MA. The Eastern terminus is at High Street in Holyoke.

History/Facts: I-391 is a short spur off of the right angle curve of I-91 as it crosses the Connecticut. It was built in the early 1980s, and it would have opened sooner had not a large supply of steel been stolen from a construction site. It connects downtown Holyoke and Chicopee with the rest of I-91, making a quick shortcut to Springfield without having to navigate US 5. At 4.4 miles, it is Massachusetts' second shortest 3 digit interstate.

Photos: Northbound / Southbound

Southbound: Holyoke/Chicopee/Springfield

State law, you know. The sign is old, though, as the resurfacing's been done for months.

Commercial street is a left-handed onramp, generally a bad idea, but there was nowhere else to put it.

If you're wondering where exit 5 went... there isn't one southbound.

Due to the nature of the interchange, there has to be two exits. That Chicopee Falls text looks like it's up way too high on that sign - someone clearly screwed up or there was more meant to be there.

Exit 4A.

Sorry for the glare.

Most Massachusetts highways warn two miles ahead of time when they merge or end.

We're closer to the exits now. That highway in the background is the Masspike - the Connecticut river bridge also serves to elevate it above 391.

A better shot of the overpass.

Kind of funny how route 116 does the double-helix with 391. I believe what used to exist underneath 391 was a state road, four lane boulevard kind of thing, but was eventually upgraded to a real limited access highway. Still doesn't explain why 116 crosses it within half a mile.

The last exit before Springfield. Still old signs.

The southbound traffic merges with I-91S (as most cars are probably going to Springfield). 91N gets a nice ramp.

Welcome to I-91.

Done? Head Northbound or Return home.

All photographs and original info ©2004/2005 Dan Vincent unless otherwise noted.