Public Safety & Transportation Committee voted to hold the following (see Report and watch the NewTV video)
- Discussion on security measures and incidents during the 2023 Boston Marathon (8-0) Police Superintendent explained the timeline and actions regarding keeping spectators off the race course. Police were called 4 times about 1 group. Alcohol is banned in Newton, alcohol and confetti cannons are banned in Boston, and drones are used for surveillance. Newton Sergeant was in charge of the bike unit. Police have not yet spoken with groups affected. Chief Carmichael has reached out to groups but Chief has not received a response. The Chief and Mayor were not invited to the meetings between groups and BAA. Police’s concern was not how the groups partied, but their incursions onto the race course.
Councilors Malakie and Grossman received emails from the groups, wondering where the connection broke down. The BAA, not the City, puts up barricades and decides what type (metal versus ropes).
- Update on the Weston Newton Square Enhancement project (6-0, Councilors Lipof and Bowman not voting).
- Director of Transportation Operations Sobel said the City is still adjusting the plan based on observations, including a ‘revised signal timing and a coordination plan.’ Increase in east/west traffic on Washington Street (Lowell to Chestnut Street) reduction from 2 lanes to 1 lane is not definite, still in the planning stage. Cyclists say the road is safer.
- Right lane turn onto Cherry Street to become straight or right lane turn.
- City has installed GPS emergency vehicle traffic signal prioritization, in part because emergency vehicles approaching from the west cannot see traffic until they are very close.
Public Safety & Transportation Committee voted No Action Necessary:
- Discussion regarding the residential parking program (5-0, Councilors Lipof, Oliver and Lucas not voting). Councilors asked why parking permits could not be sold online. Police said residency needs to be verified at the Traffic Bureau. City accepts only checks or money order for permits. City Chief Operating Officer Yeo said financial feasibility of online permits will be looked into.
