Council backs speed‑table trial, moves to remove permanent Riverside Drive barrier

Council member Eric Varkas proposed removing the permanent concrete barrier on Riverside Drive and replacing it with a short, monitored trial of speed tables. The motion called for three speed tables placed near Elm and other locations, a six‑month data collection period, and the option to reintroduce a gate if the traffic problem persisted.

A resident who lives north of Lowell urged council against a permanent gate, saying, “It is a public street. How can I how can a few homeowners cause the public street to be blocked off?” Council debate focused on cost and fairness: several members questioned whether the $51,000 barrier was the best use of funds and suggested lower‑cost alternatives such as stop signs or speed tables that could be tried first. Council and staff clarified that some traffic calming measures require engineering study before installation.

Supporters of the barrier said it had reduced traffic into the parking lot and slowed drivers, while others pushed for a solution that could be applied equitably across other roads. The council conducted a roll call and recorded votes; the motion passed with a majority in favor, with at least one recusal and one opposing vote recorded. The council directed staff to analyze optimal speed‑table placement within the project scope and to monitor speed and volume during the trial.