Bolton approves engineering study for Vernon–Quarry intersection; board rejects adding speed humps

The Bolton Board of Selectmen voted to fund an engineering study to evaluate safety improvements at the intersection of Vernon Road and Quarry Road and to pursue a design that would realign the intersection and make it a three‑way stop. Town engineer Joe Dillon told the board the recommended steps included realigning the junction to force traffic to stop before entering the segment of Vernon between Quarry Road and Route 44, installing speed control features and adding signage as needed. Dillon estimated the engineering work at roughly $7,000. The board approved funding for the engineering design so staff can prepare bid-ready plans and cost estimates, with at least one member noting the project could be eligible for the town’s Towneade Road funds or similar capital sources. The vote to approve the engineering study passed; the town will schedule the design during the winter with the goal of construction next summer if funds are available. Separately, a motion to include speed humps in the engineering scope drew public comment and opposition from residents. Sandra Pierrot, a Vernon Road neighbor, said she opposed speed bumps anywhere in town, arguing they create precedent and cause problems for emergency and town vehicles. When the board voted on the separate motion to include speed humps in the study, the motion failed 6–1. The selectmen also directed that the initial engineering work include consideration of signage and a three‑way stop realignment. The town’s administration said funds for the engineering will come from the administration’s professional and technical budget. The board’s action establishes a planned design step; any construction would require a separate funding decision and likely public notice and bidding.