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Council votes 3–2 to move Pearl Street multimodal project forward with single westbound lane
Summary
After reviewing test runs and traffic data, the council directed staff to proceed with final design and implementation of Pearl Street multimodal improvements using a single westbound lane; the motion passed 3–2 after public comment and a roll call.
The Essex Junction City Council voted 3–2 to direct staff to proceed with final design and implementation of the Pearl Street multimodal improvements using a single westbound lane configuration recommended in the 2025 scoping study.
Chris Ewan, the city’s community development director, summarized test runs and INRIX probe data showing slightly slower travel times but decreased median and 85th‑percentile speeds during lane‑reduction tests. "We observed the different locations on three different days... the test days were a little bit slower, but not that much slower," Ewan said, noting that speed reduction could improve pedestrian and bicycle comfort.
After public comment—during which residents said the project should ensure a consistent shared‑use path width and asked the council to weigh competing capital priorities—Councilor (mover) put forward a motion to proceed with the single westbound lane. The motion passed 3–2. The roll call recorded Brian (aye), Stephanie (no), Tim (no), Amber (aye), and one other affirmative vote, producing the 3–2 outcome. Councilors and staff said the pilot is reversible (paint) if operational issues arise.
