Resident urges reflective stop sign after repeated crashes at Matthews Road intersection

A Swansea resident told the Board of Selectmen that vehicles have struck her property fence repeatedly over the past three decades and urged the town and state to install enhanced signage or other protections at the T intersection where Matthews Road meets Sobeys Crossing Road.

Jane Kennedy identified herself by name and address during public comment and said the fence at 210 Sobeys Crossing Road has been hit “four times in 30 years,” most often at night by drivers who appear impaired or not paying attention. “This particular time, the individual was very responsible, showed up the next morning,” Kennedy said. She told the board she had contacted the state and that town staff had suggested bringing her letter to the state through town channels.

Kennedy said she spoke with “Alex” (identified in the discussion as a person who deals with state issues) and that Alex suggested installing a reflective sign or replacing the existing stop sign with a reflective version. She said her landscaper will provide an estimate for a more substantial physical barrier at the property line but that she would prefer a state-installed sign if possible.

Town staff confirmed there had been a discussion with the DPW director, Joe D’Russo, and said DPW plans include striping work coordinated with an upcoming installation of crosswalk lighting on Matthews Road this summer. A staff member said DPW would discuss installing a reflective sign and that striping would be done when the crosswalk lights are installed.

Board members did not take a formal vote on the request during the meeting; staff said they would follow up with DPW and, if the state did not act, would discuss local options including a reflective sign or other physical measures.