The Town Council of Stratford, CT, convened on March 4, 2024, to discuss safety improvements in the Paradise Green business area as part of the Greenway/Complete Streets initiative. The meeting focused on evaluating options to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety while addressing traffic concerns.

The council began by reviewing two primary options for improving safety near Paradise Green. The first option involved creating a left turn onto Huntington Road, followed by a turnaround at Paradise Green Place. However, consultants from MetroCOG expressed concerns that this plan might not receive approval from the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) due to potential challenges with the left lane and necessary traffic signals.

The second option discussed was to remove the green buffer in front of the businesses along the sidewalk and convert that space into a bike lane, placing it in front of the parking areas rather than behind them. This proposal aims to create a safer environment for cyclists and pedestrians.

MetroCOG staff indicated they would reach out to the Department of Transportation (DoD) for guidance on which option would be more favorable for design and safety considerations. The council noted a division of opinion among members regarding the best approach. Some members supported the proposed options, while others argued that regardless of the changes made, individuals would continue to navigate the area in potentially unsafe ways. This led to a discussion about the importance of making the environment safer for all users, particularly on Main Street.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to await feedback from the DoD, which will help inform the next steps in the design process. The council remains focused on ensuring that any changes made will enhance safety and accessibility in the Paradise Green area.