In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant traffic concerns surrounding the Elliott Street intersection, particularly in light of a new daycare development on Liberty Street that is expected to generate approximately 479 vehicle trips per day. Residents expressed frustration over existing congestion, with one member noting that the intersection is frequently backed up, contributing to gridlock.

The meeting highlighted plans for traffic improvements, including the implementation of \"do not block the box\" regulations and signal timing enhancements across four key intersections. These measures aim to optimize traffic flow and reduce delays, which have been a persistent issue in the area.

Concerns were raised about the potential negative impact of increased traffic on Danvers, with officials questioning whether the town would need to formally approve the traffic study associated with the new development. The discussion underscored a perceived imbalance, where Beverly might benefit from the housing project while Danvers bears the brunt of the traffic congestion.

To address these issues, the board proposed a peer review of the traffic report to ensure thorough evaluation and to gather expert recommendations. This review will focus on the traffic impacts specifically within Danvers, including the intersections most affected by the new development.

Officials also discussed the need for additional analysis of traffic queuing at peak hours, particularly at the Trask Lane and Wayside Drive intersection. The board is awaiting further data from MassDOT regarding traffic conditions at the Route 128 interchange, which has been a source of confusion for drivers.

The timeline for the peer review and subsequent recommendations is expected to align with the submission of a detailed environmental impact report (DEIR) planned for mid-December. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of expert input to navigate the complexities of the traffic situation and ensure that the interests of Danvers residents are adequately represented.