Council refers proposed all‑way stop at Finn & Prospect to committee after public safety testimony

Northampton — Dozens of public commenters told the City Council on Feb. 5 that the Finn and Prospect intersection is confusing and dangerous for pedestrians, bicyclists and schoolchildren. After hearing numerous residents, the council voted unanimously to refer the proposed all‑way stop ordinance to its Legislative Matters Committee for technical review.

Multiple speakers described near‑misses and limited sight lines. Ninth‑grader Kaya McCaughn said she uses the crossing daily and has been nearly hit while in the crosswalk. “I should not be made to be afraid to walk to school,” she told the council.

Other residents suggested alternative or complementary measures such as shortening the crosswalk, adding signage, narrowing the roadway with paint or bollards, or addressing a localized drainage and icing problem that forces cyclists into traffic. Transportation consultants and DPW staff advised that an engineering analysis and numerical criteria (or an engineer’s signed judgment) are typically required before an ordinance can be actioned.

The council referred the ordinance (26.01) to Legislative Matters so members can review traffic counts, engineering criteria and any correspondence (including an engineer’s letter) and return with a recommendation. Councilors emphasized that referral does not prejudge the substance but will enable committee members to request missing data and make an actionable recommendation.

What’s next: Legislative Matters will consider the ordinance at its next meeting and request any additional technical studies or engineering endorsements needed to act.