City Traffic Improvements Aim to Enhance Safety on North Street

Saco City Council is making strides in improving traffic safety and flow, as highlighted during the recent meeting on July 14, 2025. A resident commended the city's ongoing traffic calming efforts, particularly the installation of delineators that have made driving less stressful, especially on North Street. These measures are aimed at enhancing safety for both drivers and pedestrians, particularly in busy areas.

The resident pointed out that while the pilot project on Route 1 has successfully slowed traffic and improved safety for pedestrians crossing to local businesses, there are still concerns regarding cyclist safety. The current setup of the delineators leaves little room for cyclists, forcing them to choose between navigating through traffic or riding on sidewalks, which raises safety issues for both cyclists and pedestrians.

Additionally, the resident referenced a previous traffic impact study related to the Lincoln Village project, noting that certain intersections, including Spring Street and North, as well as Franklin and North, are currently failing to meet acceptable service levels for vehicles. While pedestrian and cyclist metrics were not included in the study, the resident urged the council to consider these factors in future planning.

Looking ahead, the resident suggested that the city explore the possibility of a road diet, which would reduce the number of lanes and create a center turn lane. This could potentially improve traffic flow once the new interchange is operational. The council is encouraged to collaborate with traffic engineers to assess these options.

As Saco continues to prioritize traffic safety, the community can expect ongoing discussions and potential adjustments to enhance the experience for all road users.