This policy aims to eradicate traffic-related deaths and serious injuries by implementing a comprehensive strategy that includes roadway design, systemic improvements, policy shifts, and public outreach. A motion to approve the Vision Zero policy was seconded and passed unanimously, moving the policy forward to the city council for final adoption.

Jason Shriber, a representative from a consulting firm, elaborated on the International Street Safety Action Plan, part of Vision Zero. The plan emphasizes public engagement as a cornerstone for shaping traffic safety measures. Outreach efforts included walk audits, community meetings, and public events like Chelsea Day, which amassed hundreds of interactions with residents. An online survey revealed that a majority of respondents had personal connections to traffic violence, highlighting speed and distracted driving as primary contributors to accidents.

The analysis pinpointed that a disproportionate number of crashes occurred on a mere 18% of the city’s streets, equivalent to about nine miles. This data, combined with community feedback, was used to construct a priority investment network to guide funding requests to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Five locations were identified as high priority for safety improvements, with additional locations earmarked for potential enhancements.

The recommendations were categorized into four areas: roadway design, systemic improvements, policy, and outreach. Roadway design recommendations focus on critical safety locations requiring investment, with funding applications already submitted to the DOT. Systemic recommendations include traffic signal coordination, narrowing travel lanes to reduce speeds, and implementing crosswalk best practices, especially near schools. A draft Vision Zero policy is in the works, with adoption anticipated by year-end, a requirement for continued funding.

Public outreach is deemed vital for maintaining community awareness of safety initiatives. An ongoing Vision Zero task force and an annual campaign are planned to keep citizens informed. During public comments, resident Lisa Santigate shared her personal experience with traffic trauma in Chelsea and endorsed the plan as “amazing,” reflecting community support for the initiative.

Significant discussions also revolved around public requests for infrastructure improvements. The commission addressed a communication from Linda Doo requesting speed humps on Pine Street. Due to the absence of Emily from the discussion and the need to find an alternative speed bump that would not impede fire department operations, the issue was tabled for further analysis.

Another communication from Edwin Berentos requested making Hawthorne Street a one-way street from Marginal to Central A intersection. This request was similarly tabled for further consideration. Updates were provided on four electric vehicle charging installations, with discussions postponed due to the consultant’s absence.

The commission reviewed requests for new traffic measures, such as stop signs and handicap parking applications. Nia De Young’s request for stop signs at Willow and Cottage Street was discussed, with concerns about parking too close to corners hindering fire truck access. The request was tabled for further evaluation. Anthony Ville’s handicap application for Addison Street was also tabled due to existing signs and the need for clarification from the applicant.

The meeting included updates on the downtown Broadway utility project, with upgrades to water and sewer lines, paving, and crosswalk repainting underway. A right lane of Broadway was designated as a bus bike lane. Residents were encouraged to participate in public meetings regarding the project’s second phase, slated for 2027.

Thomas L. Quattromani Jr. presented an overview of the MBTA bus network redesign. Redesigned routes, including Route 104, have seen ridership increases. New routes, such as 112 and 113, are designed to improve east-west connections and accessibility to key areas. The commission was informed that approval of new landing pads and enhancements at bus stops would be part of the collaboration between the MBTA and Chelsea staff.

Proposed bus route adjustments were a focal point, with extended service hours discussed for routes 112, 113, and 116. While frequency would be less than routes 111 and 116, there would be more buses running longer. Concerns about transfers for cash-paying passengers and impacts on existing services were raised.

The commission also discussed modifications at Pearl Street to improve bus efficiency, with sidewalk widening proposed without losing parking spaces. Adjustments at Broadway and Fourth Street were proposed to prevent buses from blocking traffic. These designs remain under review, with no immediate implementation.

Concerns about bus network redesign and its potential impacts on parking and traffic flow were discussed, particularly regarding the Cottage Street and Chelsea busway. The proposed Route 113 would connect Assembly Road in Somerville to the Chelsea busway, ending at Eastern Avenue. The commission emphasized the need to secure a turnaround within the busway to avoid delays.