The Falmouth Zoning Board convened on November 21, 2024, to address community concerns regarding traffic and safety issues in the vicinity of Beaman Lane and Route 28A. The meeting featured public comments from residents, including Janet Chikarian and Patty Cusack, who expressed significant apprehensions about the increasing traffic congestion and safety hazards in the area.

Chikarian, a newcomer to Falmouth, highlighted the frequent presence of delivery trucks and service vehicles, particularly those servicing local businesses like Bukatino's restaurant. She noted that these vehicles often block the road, creating delays for other drivers and pedestrians. Chikarian emphasized the lack of pedestrian access across Route 28A, which she described as a dangerous intersection, particularly for tourists and residents trying to access the bike path. She mentioned a previous request for sidewalks and crosswalks that had been referred to the select board but had not yet seen progress.

Chikarian raised questions about the type of housing being developed in the area, inquiring whether it would cater to tourists, workers, or short-term residents facing housing shortages. She urged the board to consider these factors in their planning, as they could exacerbate existing traffic issues.

Following Chikarian's comments, Patty Cusack, a resident of Beaman Lane, echoed similar concerns regarding traffic safety. She pointed out that adding more parking spaces could lead to increased accidents, particularly at the busy intersection of Routes 151 and 28A. Cusack questioned the effectiveness of traffic signage for longer-term residents who might not feel compelled to adhere to traffic rules.

The board acknowledged the residents' concerns but clarified that some issues, such as the request for crosswalks, would need to be directed to the select board, as they fall outside the zoning board's jurisdiction. The meeting concluded with a commitment to consider the residents' feedback in future discussions, although no immediate resolutions were reached regarding the traffic and safety concerns raised.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by Falmouth residents regarding traffic management and pedestrian safety, particularly in areas experiencing increased development and visitor traffic.