The most discussion centered on the proposal for stop signs at the intersection of South Main Street and Bradford Avenue. Representatives from the Fall River Arts and Culture Coalition presented an initiative funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Asphalt Art Initiative, aiming to enhance road safety through painted curb extensions designed to reduce crosswalk lengths and narrow lane widths, thereby slowing down traffic. Jasmine Per explained that these painted curb extensions, also referred to as bump-outs, would be surrounded by flexible bollards to prevent vehicles from encroaching on pedestrian areas.

Concerns were raised about the necessity and potential impact of stop signs at this intersection. Some board members questioned whether stop signs might disrupt the flow of traffic, particularly for southbound vehicles on South Main Street. They also debated if stop signs might create congestion, especially considering the school’s proximity and existing traffic patterns. One member emphasized the importance of maintaining a smooth traffic flow for emergency vehicles, including ambulances.

The representatives argued that the stop signs were a critical part of the engineering department’s original design and necessary for the grant’s approval. They committed to maintaining the painted curb extensions and flexible bollards for a two-year trial period, after which the city would evaluate their effectiveness. The board suggested observing the impact of the painted curb extensions first and then reassessing the need for stop signs based on the data collected during the trial period.

The discussion then moved to Eddie Street, where the board deliberated on making it a one-way street to enhance safety. The narrowness of the street and the potential hazards for emergency vehicles were concerns raised by residents. After considering the input, the board agreed that designating Eddie Street as a one-way street would improve safety and approved the change unanimously.

Another notable request came from Glamour Hair, which sought two to three one-hour parking spaces in front of their business. The representative from Glamour Hair explained that the lack of parking was affecting their customer base. However, the board clarified that public parking spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be allocated to specific businesses. Consequently, the request was denied without opposition.

Community Connections, an organization providing services for individuals with disabilities, requested three designated parking spaces for drop-off and pick-up. The representative highlighted the safety issues caused by double parking, particularly with larger vehicles like 15-passenger vans. Acknowledging these concerns, the board approved the removal of one parking meter to create a loading zone, facilitating safer access for the organization’s vehicles.

Several requests for handicap parking spaces were also reviewed. A request for a handicap spot on Bey Street was denied due to the applicant’s access to off-street parking. Conversely, a request for a handicap spot on Pine Street was swiftly approved. Another request on Washington Street was postponed pending the submission of vehicle registration documentation.

A particularly discussion arose regarding a handicap drop-off spot for a student at a local school. The representative emphasized the need for a curb cut to facilitate access, as the current drop-off arrangement was inadequate. The board noted regulatory constraints, stating that parking within 20 feet of a corner was not permissible. They suggested that applying for a curb cut through the engineering department could be a viable solution, although this would be a separate process from the current request for a handicap spot.