Neighbors in Lower Mills can expect to hear a series of loud bangs on Thursday (July 25) morning and afternoon, according to the state’s Department of Transportation (MassDOT). The booms will be sonic tests that are being conducted on the Neponset River to “evaluate the river's subsurface conditions.” There will be six to eight such tests spaced out in intervals of about 45 minutes, beginning at 9 a.m. “This work will not affect vehicular, MBTA, or pedestrian travel in the area,” according to a statement from MassDOT.