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Hampden to pilot Safe Streets demonstration on Main Road North to slow traffic and study effects
Summary
The committee reviewed a grant-funded, removable traffic-calming demonstration (May–Nov) near the ski center and old fire station; staff will collect speed data and surveys, but residents raised questions about truck impacts, lighting and whether the crossing serves local school routes.
The committee reviewed a grant-funded Safe Streets for All demonstration proposed for a crosswalk that links the ski center to the old fire station in Hampden’s town-center area. Amy Bridal Johnson said the trial devices are removable and will be installed after May 1 and removed no later than Nov. 15; materials are provided by the grant program and public works will help set up and remove them. Staff said pre- and post-surveys plus speed monitoring will be used to evaluate effects.
Traffic engineers and councilors debated whether the pilot could produce statistically meaningful crash reductions given only seven crashes reported at the location since 2015, but staff said “if you can get an average speed reduction of 2 to 3 miles an hour at that location, you've gotta win,” citing expected behavior changes as a meaningful safety metric. Residents expressed concerns about truck traffic knocking over devices, night visibility and whether the crossing is used to connect school routes; staff responded that ped pedestals include retroreflective tape and the pilot will add warning signage and data collection to help decide on permanent measures.
