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Traffic safety committee flags multiple crosswalks, lane‑marking and no‑parking issues; council asks for enforcement and signage follow-up
Summary
The council received a detailed Traffic Safety Committee report addressing crosswalk safety on Stackpole and High Street, a mid‑block crossing request on Route 108, lane‑marking at Walton's Way, Main/Market signal review, a potential 4‑way stop at Constitutional Way/Washington, Mount Auburn visibility, and parking enforcement on Franklin Street.
Councilor Vincent reported out the Traffic Safety Committee on Sept. 2, summarizing several traffic and pedestrian safety items and committee recommendations. The committee identified the Stackpole/High Street crosswalk as a safety concern because it spans five lanes and drivers turning right do not always notice pedestrians; the committee recommended enforcement and education as an immediate step. At Walton’s Way and High Street, the issue was lane discipline rather than accidents; the committee recommended improved lane markings to keep drivers in the proper lane. The committee relayed a petition from a property owner (Tri City Dealer representatives were later present) seeking a mid‑block crossing across Route 108; members noted state approval and costs are substantial and recommended the city consider a proponent-funded approach (which the council later authorized for a MOU). For Main Street at Market Street the committee took no action after an officer’s site visit that found motorists largely courteous and allowing turns. Members discussed making Constitutional Way at Washington Street a 4‑way stop but noted prior history where stopping on an incline caused winter traction problems; the committee favored installing “cross traffic does not stop” signs and is researching costs. Public Works and enforcement follow‑up items included new signage and more enforcement of a 25‑foot no‑parking zone at Mount Auburn and Main, and the installation of no‑parking signs or pavement markings on Franklin Street between Silver and Green to reduce congestion and facilitate emergency vehicle access. Committee members and councilors emphasized that enforcement capacity is limited and suggested signage or pavement markings as durable remedies. The report will move to the specific departments for action: Police for enforcement, Public Works for signage and pavement marking, and the city manager to work with proponents and state DOT on any Route 108 crossing application.
