24:43Jeffrey Alexis from the Public Works Department introduced the comprehensive project, outlining plans to improve safety for pedestrians, who make up a substantial portion of daily travelers on Sleeper Street. The proposals include curb realignment, widening sidewalks near the Children’s Museum, and installing speed humps and raised crosswalks to minimize pedestrian and vehicular conflicts. The tragic accident involving a young girl named Gracie played a role in galvanizing community and city efforts to prioritize pedestrian safety in this area.

The project design aims to redirect Sleeper Street to reduce conflicts at the intersection with Congress Street, thereby enhancing safety. Matt from HDR, a design consultant, elaborated on the changes, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in shaping the project. He noted that alterations such as speed humps and raised crossings would be strategically positioned to safeguard pedestrians.

38:14A notable public comment came from a resident named Dolores, who voiced strong concerns about the safety of children navigating the intersection at Sleeper Street. She advocated for signalized intersections and emphasized the chaotic environment due to the proximity of the Children’s Museum, which receives regular deliveries. The commission acknowledged her concerns and confirmed that the project team would explore options such as flashing yellow yield stop lights at the blind corner where metered and resident parking coexist.

Jeff, a member of the project team, responded to Dolores’s concerns, highlighting a thorough analysis of the intersection’s redesign. The plan includes requiring vehicles to slow down and stop as they approach Congress Street, with widened sidewalks to improve pedestrian visibility.

01:01:42In addition to the Sleeper Street project, the commission discussed several other infrastructure initiatives. One involved specific repairs to Western Avenue, led by Deborah Danick from Niche Engineering, with input from Harvard University and other stakeholders. The project includes introducing a cycle track and pedestrian pathways, facilitated through easements to enhance public access.

16:30Another topic was a petition by the Boston Public Facilities Department for repairs on Parish Street, focusing on curb realignment and infrastructure improvements. The Public Works Department confirmed maintenance responsibilities, with a warranty period for newly planted trees.

21:00The meeting also addressed a proposal to rename Wellington Hill Footway in Dorchester to David Lopes Footway, honoring Lopes’ contributions to local footpath restoration. The motion gained unanimous approval, with plans to update signage reflecting the new name.

01:41:49Additionally, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) presented a project to improve accessibility along the B branch of the Green Line, focusing on pedestrian crossings and ADA compliance. The commission confirmed plans for a public hearing on this project later in the month.