The proposal to make Essic Street one-way was a primary focus during the meeting. A local counselor introduced the amendment, citing successful traffic calming outcomes from similar changes on Hancock and Cambridge Streets. Anthony DeMarco, a 30-year resident of Essic Street, supported the amendment. He described the street as becoming a high-speed thoroughfare and recounted dangerous traffic conditions, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times at a nearby preschool. DeMarco emphasized the risks posed to children and pedestrians, urging the commission to act swiftly. He also suggested implementing a no-truck zone to reduce congestion from delivery trucks servicing a nearby nursing home. The commission unanimously approved the motion to convert Essic Street to a one-way street.

Another major agenda item addressed was the implementation of a structured process for traffic calming measures. The head of Community Development, Tom Skroski, outlined a comprehensive policy framework to systematically address traffic issues citywide. This proposed policy aims to create safer streets with less reliance on police enforcement by using effective design strategies. Skroski highlighted the importance of using data to guide decisions and introduced a petition process that would allow residents to propose traffic calming projects. Approved petitions would then be analyzed by a traffic working group, with projects prioritized based on criteria such as speed limits, street width, and public support. The commission unanimously adopted this policy, aligning with Federal Highway Administration guidelines.

Parking regulations also took center stage, with discussions on proposed changes to Mill Street and Green Street. On Mill Street, existing ordinances prohibit parking on both sides, yet parking occurs frequently, prompting calls for a public hearing to engage residents. Commission members debated potential amendments, including allowing parking on one side only. The need for community input was emphasized to ensure residents’ voices are considered in any decision-making process.

Green Street faced scrutiny due to concerns raised by residents about unsafe traffic conditions caused by its narrow width and increasing traffic from new developments. A proposal to implement a “no parking” restriction on one side of Green Street was introduced to address these issues. Residents advocated for this change, emphasizing the hazards posed by speeding vehicles and limited visibility. The commission agreed to move this proposal to a public hearing, allowing for broader community participation.

Further discussions touched on parking challenges across various neighborhoods, sparked by an anticipated increase in demand due to the upcoming completion of the Mack and Field athletic facility. Commission members acknowledged the facility’s design includes off-street parking but recognized the potential strain on surrounding streets. They stressed the need for a comprehensive evaluation of parking solutions to prevent overflow into adjacent areas.

The commission also considered amendments to parking restrictions at Gillwell Park, proposing two-hour parking limits during the day and no overnight parking, to curb misuse of spaces intended for park visitors. The motion to hold a public hearing for this amendment was supported.

Lastly, the commission addressed several pending requests, including the installation of a crosswalk on Sergeant Street and speed tables on Proct Avenue, which were tabled for further evaluation. A request for handicap parking on Florence Avenue was also postponed due to insufficient information.