Maria Kiki, a resident of South Amherst, voiced her apprehensions regarding the proposed roundabouts, arguing that they may not prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety, particularly for children. She emphasized that the efficiency of handling traffic should not overshadow the safety of vulnerable road users. Kiki called for alternative solutions. She also raised concerns about the lack of consultation with key stakeholders, such as the Traffic Advisory Committee and school staff, prior to the study’s commission. Moreover, Kiki questioned the transparency regarding the funding sources for these traffic improvements, specifically the potential use of school project debt exclusion override funds, which she deemed inappropriate without prior disclosure to voters.

Further insight into the traffic safety discussion came from another resident, Jeremy Anderson, who underscored the importance of designing streets to promote multimodal access. Drawing on his experiences with the National Walking College, Anderson advocated for dedicated bike lanes and accessible sidewalks as part of the traffic planning. He urged the committee to consider expanding school zone hours to enhance safety, citing examples from other towns with more inclusive school zone regulations.

The committee also deliberated on a proposal from the University of Massachusetts (UMass) for installing vehicular directional signage on East Pleasant Street to improve navigation for campus visitors. While the committee acknowledged the need for effective wayfinding, concerns were raised about the potential for driver confusion, particularly regarding the two university entrances along East Pleasant Street. A member suggested that reducing the number of signs might prevent misunderstandings about the correct entrance. Ultimately, the committee voted 4-0 to recommend the installation of the signs to the Town Council, with one member absent.

In addition to transportation issues, the meeting addressed upcoming appointments to various committees, including the Community Safety and Social Justice Committee and the Cultural Council. The committee recommended candidates Eric Padan and Angelique Ferguson for the Community Safety and Social Justice Committee, noting their commitment to community engagement. Similarly, Evelyn Figaroa and William Murray were proposed for the Cultural Council, recognized for their active involvement in the arts.

The meeting also touched upon waste management concerns, highlighting feedback from a recent District 2 meeting, which was the first hybrid format attempted for such gatherings. Participants noted technological challenges but reported strong attendance both in person and virtually. Discussions focused on transitioning from a bin system to a bag system for waste disposal, the limited frequency of hazardous waste collection days, and costs associated with using the transfer station for residents already paying for curbside trash pickup.

As the meeting drew to a close, the committee discussed logistics for future meetings and emphasized the importance of public engagement, particularly regarding the Southeast Street proposal. Members stressed the need for increased public commentary and suggested holding a public hearing to address community concerns comprehensively. The committee also discussed potential construction of safer pathways for children walking or biking to local schools, including the possibility of a pedestrian bridge over the Fort River to facilitate direct access to Fort River School.