Commission OKs two illuminated bollards for Main/Walden bump-outs, prefers shorter, dark‑sky‑friendly design

The Historic Districts Commission voted Aug. 28 to permit two illuminated bollards in the proposed bump‑outs at the Main and Walden Street intersection to improve nighttime visibility and pedestrian safety.

Joe Cormier of the Town’s engineering division described the project as part of a MassDOT shared‑streets and spaces grant to reduce speed and improve ADA mobility. He said the bollards are proposed because vertical elements in the bump‑out design were reduced for ADA reasons and the town sought a way to make the bump‑outs more visible: “the real purpose of it is to improve safety, for oncoming motorists as well as to eliminate pedestrians that are waiting at these, that are waiting to cross the road at these ramps.”

The applicant presented two bollard styles; commissioners preferred option 2, a shorter cast‑aluminum bollard with the LED element tucked into the dome to limit horizontal and upward light. Joe Cormier confirmed the fixtures would be “dark‑sky friendly” (minimizing light above the horizontal), although he said they are not guaranteed to meet stricter dark‑sky compliance standards.

The motion to approve both bollard options with a preference for option 2 and the condition that the fixtures be dark‑sky friendly carried by roll‑call vote. The commission asked the applicant to return to staff if procurement constraints prevent obtaining option 2 so the commission need not hold another hearing if a compatible alternative is required.

Next steps: CPW will finalize procurement and installation details and coordinate with town staff on exact mounting and finish to match town lighting where appropriate.