Addressing the safety and accessibility of Acushnet’s roads was a primary focus of the meeting, with particular emphasis on the narrow back roads such as Perry Hill and Halfway Road. The absence of sidewalks in many parts of the town, especially away from the center, exacerbates the risk for both cyclists and pedestrians. Participants noted that navigating these roads felt unsafe due to high-speed vehicle traffic and limited space, with one individual describing it as “unnerving.”

The committee explored the potential for implementing bike lane markings on roads like Hamlin Street, which is undergoing repairs, to enhance driver awareness of cyclists. Despite the road’s limited width, members highlighted the need for visual cues to alert motorists to the presence of cyclists. This conversation underscored a recurring theme of the need for increased safety measures and infrastructure to accommodate non-motorized traffic.

Participants also shared personal experiences about the challenges faced by pedestrians on streets such as Wing Road, where the absence of sidewalks poses a significant hazard, particularly at night. The shared sentiment was that without proper infrastructure, walking in these areas remains risky, with individuals often forced to navigate traffic-heavy streets to reach their destinations safely.

The committee addressed a tragic incident involving a cyclist who was killed in a collision with a truck. This highlighted the need for better infrastructure and safety measures in high-traffic areas.

The committee also discussed upcoming infrastructure projects, such as the planned renovations for Slok Street, which will introduce new sidewalks and curbs. There was optimism about these improvements, though funding for additional elements like trees along the sidewalks remains a concern. The group agreed on the necessity of ongoing mapping efforts to identify areas requiring attention and improvement.

A presentation by Chris Welch from the Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District (SRPEDD) provided an overview of the town’s Master Plan, a 10-year framework addressing various community needs, including transportation and safety. Welch emphasized the importance of community engagement in shaping the plan, encouraging input from committee members and residents through active surveys and public meetings.

The Master Plan also integrates concurrent plans for water management and open space and recreation, with Welch noting an upcoming event focused on these topics. He highlighted the collaborative nature of the planning process, inviting input to shape the final goals and strategies, particularly in areas where residents feel unsafe. The use of an interactive map for identifying safety issues or suggestions for improvements was discussed, with specific mention of problematic locations like F Street.

The committee expressed interest in future projects, including a potential bike trail connecting Fairhaven and Acushnet, which aligns with regional efforts to create a bike route from Fall River to New Bedford. The need for marked paths to encourage families to use biking as a means of transportation to school and local amenities was also highlighted.

The committee recognized that the town’s historical development, with roads established in the 17th and 18th centuries, presents unique challenges, but also provides an opportunity to modernize and improve safety features to meet current needs.