Residents of Terry Street in North Providence are pushing for action as traffic concerns escalate. During the recent Town Council meeting on March 5, 2024, Ross Maher, a long-time resident, presented a compelling case for the installation of three speed bumps on the northern side of Terry Street. Maher highlighted a significant increase in traffic volume since the abandonment of Angel Road, leading to frequent speeding violations that endanger local residents.

Maher reported that all residents on the northern portion of Terry Street have signed a petition supporting the speed bump initiative, exceeding the required 80% approval threshold outlined in town ordinances. He emphasized that the proposed speed bumps would effectively reduce vehicle speeds and enhance safety for the seven households on that stretch of road.

The council responded positively to Maher's request, with a motion made to forward the petition to the Department of Public Works, police, and fire departments for further evaluation. Council members acknowledged the need for a practical solution to the growing traffic issue, especially given the recent installation of a solar-powered speed detector at the end of the street, which has shown mixed results in slowing down motorists.

In addition to the speed bump discussion, the meeting also addressed flooding concerns raised by residents of Bicentennial Way and St. John's Circle. Bob Laurito, a resident of Bicentennial Way, reported frequent flooding in his basement and urged the council to investigate the drainage system's capacity. He suggested using cameras to assess potential blockages in the pipes, as the flooding has become increasingly problematic over the past year.

The council recognized the urgency of the flooding issue and agreed to communicate with the Department of Public Works to explore potential solutions. The discussions highlighted the growing challenges of traffic safety and drainage management in North Providence, with residents advocating for timely and effective responses from local government.