Residents gathered for an informational meeting on the proposed improvements to the Tebets Road and Old Dover Road intersection, a site notorious for its high traffic volume and accident history. Peter Norris, the Director of Public Works, opened the meeting by highlighting the intersection's critical need for upgrades, noting it accommodates approximately 13,000 vehicles daily, including a significant number of large trucks. Over the past decade, the intersection has seen 63 crashes, including one fatality, prompting a safety audit by the Department of Transportation (DOT) in 2019.

The meeting followed a local concerns session held in September 2022, where community feedback was solicited. In response to public calls for immediate safety measures, the city implemented minor improvements, such as adding a flashing beacon and repainting stop bars. However, the focus of the meeting was on long-term solutions, with two primary alternatives under consideration: a four-way stop or a roundabout.

Mike Dugas, the chief engineer for the project, presented the existing conditions and deficiencies at the intersection, emphasizing visibility issues caused by utility poles and trees, as well as traffic delays during peak hours. He outlined the potential benefits of a roundabout, which could enhance safety by reducing collision speeds and improving traffic flow. The estimated cost for a roundabout is approximately $575,000, while the four-way stop alternative would cost around $350,000.

Community members expressed concerns about speeding vehicles and the impact of increased truck traffic on their properties. Some residents advocated for stricter enforcement of speed limits, suggesting that police presence could deter reckless driving. Others questioned the necessity of a roundabout in a residential area, fearing it might disrupt the neighborhood's ambiance.

The project is currently in the engineering study phase, with plans to move into preliminary design and public hearings in 2025, aiming for construction to begin in 2026. As discussions continue, the city remains committed to balancing safety improvements with the needs of local residents.