A group of residents raised safety concerns at the complex Honeywell/Wellesley/Ardmore intersection during public comment on Sept. 10, describing limited sight lines from the Ardmore stop and repeated near‑collisions when drivers attempt left turns onto Wellesley Avenue.
The petitioner said a new hedge and fence at a corner property obstructs the line of sight for drivers stopped at Ardmore and called for a four‑way stop, a mirror or other measures. Committee staff explained that mirrors are generally not permitted by the town because they can distract drivers, shift liability if not maintained and give a false sense of security. Staff also reported prior outreach to the property owner; the bylaw requires certain sight‑triangle clearance (commonly a 25‑foot triangle) and staff will begin with a letter requesting the owner reduce the obstruction.
Nut graf: the committee took two near‑term steps — staff will send a letter to the property owner asking that vegetation be adjusted to restore clear sight lines, and staff will continue coordination with Wellesley engineering because portions of the intersection and some adjacent land are within Wellesley’s ownership; a longer‑term geometric redesign would require funding and intermunicipal coordination.
Committee members noted past studies and an on‑call engineering feasibility proposal that could evaluate geometric changes, such as modifying turn islands or slip lanes, but that the work was not currently funded. The committee urged neighborhood petitioners to engage Wellesley residents or officials as well, because a full solution likely requires both towns’ cooperation.
Ending: staff will send an initial sight‑line notice to the property owner, continue discussions with Wellesley engineering about feasible improvements and report back on whether the committee should pursue a funded feasibility study or a citizen petition to advance design work.