Wolfeboro Board of Selectmen split over competing crosswalk petitions, votes 3‑2 to keep current setbacks

The Wolfeboro Board of Selectmen voted 3‑2 on May 6 to maintain the town’s current crosswalk setback configuration after hearing competing warrant articles and technical guidance.

Chair Paul O’Brien said both citizen petitions (Articles 22 and 26) passed at the ballot but “the statements directly contradict each other,” and read a Stantec summary recommending adoption of the 20‑foot setback described in Petition 22. Stantec also advised a complete downtown corridor study be presented to the New Hampshire Department of Transportation for options and compliance.

The motion, made by Selectman John Thurston and seconded for discussion, directed the director of public works to mark the crosswalks in their current locations and maintain existing safety setbacks rather than restoring parking spaces immediately adjacent to some crosswalks. After debate over pedestrian safety, ADA access and statutory exposure, the roll call was Thurston — Yes; Mrs. Murray — No; Senecal — Yes; Deshaies — No; O’Brien — Yes. The motion passed 3‑2.

Mrs. Murray said she was concerned about the process and public input and supported restoring only one parking space at each affected crossing to improve visibility while balancing voters’ intent. Mr. Deshaies noted procedural history and cited state RSA guidance in urging caution before changing the current configuration. The Board agreed to consider a work session and review a 2009 Lakes Region Planning Commission downtown study to guide any further action.

The vote leaves in place the current crosswalk markings while directing staff and consultants to develop additional engineering and legal analysis for future discussion. No ordinance change was adopted at the meeting; the Selectmen signaled next steps would include a focused Stantec study and coordination with NHDOT.