The Traffic Council voted to Approve (see Report and watch NewTV video):
- Installing fully-funded Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) at:
- Needham Street at Industrial Place;
- 150 Needham Street (north of Jaconnet Street);
- 40 Needham Street (south of Easy Street);
- Oak Street at the Upper Falls Greenway;
- Elliot Street at Linden Street;
- Elliot Street at Cottage Street;
- Hammond Pond Parkway (north of the Boston College Driveway)
A resident requested the 3 Needham St RRFBs be installed after the street’s reconstruction and noted an accessible ramp by Easy St is missing. DPW seemed open to waiting and said they are working on a prioritization process for the RRFBs. (5-0)
- Request to add two stop signs in Ward 5 at the end of Stony Brae Road as it intersects with Walnut St and at the end of Solon St as it intersects with Walnut St. No stop signs will be added to Walnut St. Residents speaking at the meeting were not convinced the stop signs would stop speeding. The police stated they would use a speed trailer and targeted enforcement in the area. (5-0)
The Traffic Council voted No Action Necessary:
- Resident request for a Safety Zone on Park St between Church St and Tremont St in Ward 1. The area is in a 20 mph School Zone with signs and a flasher. A Safety Zone would extend the 20 mph speed limit throughout the day. City staff preferred keeping the School Zone. (5-0)
- Request to move the accessible parking space at 304 Walnut St in Ward 2 to another location on Walnut St in Newtonville. Commission on Disability asked to maintain the current space because various items blocked the sidewalk path elsewhere. Staff site visit did not find a better location. (5-0)
The Traffic Council voted to Hold:
- A change to the parking regulations on Russell Road in Ward 1 was held to docket a new Traffic Council item to discuss a broader area for parking regulation changes. Residents are concerned about commuter parking. Some requested “Resident Parking Only,” similar to that on Charlesbank Road. The Council debated the feasibility of a “Resident Parking Only” trial. (4-1, Councilor Fischman opposed).
All approved items can be appealed through May 1, 2024.