During the Needham Select Board meeting on August 12, 2025, community concerns about a proposed engineering plan for a four-way intersection took center stage. Resident John Halen passionately voiced his opposition to the current proposal, advocating for the installation of stop signs at Paul Revere instead. Halen emphasized that this simple solution could save the town approximately $150,000, a significant amount that could be redirected to other community needs.

Halen, a longtime resident, expressed frustration over what he described as a flawed engineering plan that had not adequately considered neighborhood input. He highlighted the historical safety of the intersection, which has functioned without major issues for over 75 years. His remarks resonated with other residents, including Debbie, who had previously spoken in favor of the stop sign solution.

In contrast, Paul Smith, another resident, shared a different perspective, noting that many in the community were not opposed to the proposed changes. He acknowledged the efforts of the Department of Public Works in addressing crosswalk safety and expressed a desire for continued dialogue on the matter.

The meeting also faced technical difficulties, with some attendees struggling to hear public comments clearly. Board members assured participants that they would address these audio issues to ensure effective communication.

As the meeting progressed, the Select Board was set to discuss the intersection proposal further, with community feedback playing a crucial role in their decision-making process. The outcome of this discussion could significantly impact the safety and functionality of the neighborhood's traffic flow.