Council discusses Highland Terrace crosswalk; Public Works provides cost estimate and options

At the June 18 meeting Gardiner City Councilors and residents discussed a crosswalk request at Highland Terrace, where residents reported near-miss incidents and difficulty crossing. John Cameron, the city’s Public Works Director, presented a preliminary contractor estimate for an ADA-compliant crosswalk and “safe landing” on the opposite side of the roadway and said the price exceeded his expectations.

Cameron told council the cost reflects creating a compliant landing where there is currently no sidewalk, cutting curb, plus permitting and state approval. He said the downtown crosswalk painting crew is working and that heavier work would likely require overnight operations if done by outside contractors. He estimated the total would be “a little over $20,000” for the design shown to council but said an in-house public-works build (excluding lighting) could be substantially cheaper and that lighting alone might be “around $4,000.”

Residents and councilors urged prompt action. Alex Smith, a business owner who spoke during public comment, said he sees near-accidents daily at a downtown intersection and flagged slowing drivers as a safety priority. Councilor Rusty Greenleaf and others reported constituent contacts requesting the Highland Terrace crossing. Councilor Gaye Grant noted Maine Department of Transportation work in her district and asked whether DOT design assistance might be available.

Councilors asked staff to research lower-cost options including in-house construction for the landing and alternative lighting choices (including solar flashing signs), to get formal cost estimates and to consult a regional traffic engineer or DOT. Interim City Manager Denise Brown said the estimated contractor quote was not in the adopted FY26 budget; using city crews or special revenues would be less costly than contracting out, while an outside contract would likely require using fund balance or special revenues.

No formal motion was taken; council directed staff to return with additional information, cost options and permit requirements. Council also suggested interim safety measures such as targeted police enforcement to remind drivers of the 25 mph limit near the area while staff pursue longer-term fixes.

Why it matters

Councilors said the site has multiple apartment complexes and pedestrian activity, including children, and residents reported drivers exceeding the speed limit. The final decision will balance resident safety, ADA requirements and available funding.

Sources: Gardiner City Council meeting transcript, June 18, 2025; statements by Public Works Director John Cameron and public commenter Alex Smith.