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Active Transportation committee asks for $75,000 to add three crosswalk/sidewalk projects near Westborough High School
Summary
The Active Transportation & Safety Committee presented a warrant article to fund three crosswalk/sidewalk projects near the high school, seeking $75,000 to include an optional rapid flashing beacon after school committee feedback; DPW and the board discussed placement, phasing with sewer work, and the need for clearer visuals and tighter quotes before town meeting.
The Select Board heard Article 18 from the Active Transportation & Safety Committee asking town meeting to authorize spending for three pedestrian improvements near Westborough High School: a crosswalk across Ruggles Street and two crossings at back driveways and the ballfield entrance. Ellen, chair of the committee, said the recommendations come from MassDOT Safe Routes to Schools audits and the town’s Complete Streets plan and that residents have repeatedly requested the Ruggles crosswalk.
"We participate in the MassDOT Safe Routes to Schools program," Ellen said, explaining that many on‑site recommendations were already implemented by schools but these three items fall on town property and therefore require a warrant article. The committee had asked for $60,000 originally; after school committee members expressed a preference for a rapid flashing beacon on Ruggles, the committee increased the article to $75,000 to allow an option for flashing beacons.
DPW staff cautioned that previous installations and the Complete Streets plan do not automatically recommend beacons at every crossing and that the department does not favor installing a flashing beacon at every new crossing. Ellen said the beacons are moveable and the committee included the higher figure to give town meeting a choice.
Board members asked that visuals and site photos be clearer for town meeting and that the committee secure a more precise cost estimate before presenting the article at town meeting. Ellen said the DPW will coordinate the timing with planned sewer work on Ruggles and that some elements might be installed in coordination with that project.
No final vote was taken; the board asked the committee to refine the visuals and budget before the article is finalized.
