The most compelling discussion centered around traffic safety concerns at the intersection of Coral Street and Cambridge Street. A representative highlighted the ongoing issue of vehicles ignoring the existing stop sign at Coral Street, causing property damage. In response, the board agreed to replace the current stop sign with a light-up version to enhance visibility and compliance. This decision was made after acknowledging that additional signage could be necessary to mitigate the disregard for traffic rules at this intersection.

Another issue addressed at the meeting was the recurring traffic accidents on Milican Boulevard, particularly in front of Dr. Monto’s office. A representative from the office expressed frustration over the lack of action on previous warnings about the dangerous traffic conditions. The board agreed to deploy mobile traffic trailers to collect speed data and potentially deter speeding, as well as to gather crash data for a comprehensive assessment. The representative suggested that modifying the traffic flow, such as allowing a right turn from one of the exits, could alleviate congestion and improve safety. The board committed to exploring viable solutions for the area, emphasizing the need for a thorough analysis of traffic patterns to prevent future incidents.

In discussions regarding Westall School, which has transitioned to a community school with an emphasis on pedestrian access, the board considered a proposal to change the traffic flow on June Street. The director of safety and security for the Fall River School District highlighted safety issues at the intersection of June and Maple Streets, citing near-miss incidents. The suggestion was made to designate June Street as one-way from Prospect to Maple to improve traffic flow and safety, particularly for afterschool program buses. The board agreed to consult with the Fire Department to ensure emergency vehicle access and to notify nearby residents for their input before making a final decision.

The board also turned its attention to the hazardous intersection of President Avenue and Highland Avenue. A lack of signage had led to confusion for drivers, and the board discussed potential solutions, including the installation of a sign indicating one-way traffic to enhance driver awareness. The challenges posed by the area’s hilly terrain were noted, impacting visibility and traffic flow. Suggestions were made to install a flashing light for heightened visibility, inspired by a similar setup near a local school. The board acknowledged the need for comprehensive planning and input from stakeholders, including the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, to ensure effective and safe traffic management at this intersection.

The meeting also addressed issues related to handicap parking requests. A request for a handicap space on William Street was approved without opposition. However, discussions revealed common challenges with these spaces on public streets, as they are shared and cannot be reserved for specific individuals. The board emphasized that these spots operate on a first-come, first-served basis and suggested contacting the traffic authority for assistance if misuse occurs. Additional handicap parking requests for John Street, William Street, and other locations were also reviewed and approved, with the board noting the process involved in placing handicap signs takes approximately 12 weeks.