Village group proposes safer pedestrian access near Lyceum through parking adjustments

During a recent meeting of the Tamworth NH Selectmen, discussions centered on improving pedestrian safety in the village center, particularly in front of the Lyceum building. The informal group highlighted concerns about the current parking situation, which forces pedestrians to navigate around parked cars, creating potential hazards as they move between the library and nearby businesses.

One proposed solution involves altering the parking layout to diagonal stripes, which would allow for a safer walkway between the Lyceum's porch and parked vehicles. Richard Roberts, the road agent, expressed support for this idea and had even arranged for the necessary striping to be completed soon. However, the plan was put on hold pending further discussions and approvals from the Selectmen.

Concerns were raised regarding maintenance and safety, particularly in winter months when snow accumulation could obstruct the walkway. Previous objections to similar proposals were noted, including worries about losing road space and the challenges of snow removal. The Selectmen acknowledged the need for additional research and discussions before moving forward.

A suggestion was made to explore the installation of snow retention devices on the Lyceum's roof, similar to those recently added to the bakery's building. This could potentially alleviate some concerns about snow sliding onto the walkway, thereby improving safety for pedestrians.

The meeting underscored the importance of balancing community safety with practical considerations in infrastructure changes. As discussions continue, the Selectmen aim to address these issues comprehensively, ensuring that any modifications enhance pedestrian safety while also considering maintenance challenges.