03:11The most notable topic of debate was the proposal to convert Pine Street into a one-way street from Roberson to Seaberry. This change aims to facilitate parking for visitors to the VABC, located on Pine Street. The proposal, initially met with concerns from the fire chief regarding emergency access, gained renewed support following a reversal of the fire chief’s stance. However, the Traffic Board unanimously decided to table the matter once more until a fire department representative could attend a future meeting to provide direct input.

10:11Ken Lec, the executive director of the VABC, highlighted the pressing parking issues on Pine Street, exacerbated by the construction of a new apartment building at Sacred Heart. Lec emphasized that the construction crews further strain the limited on-street parking, complicating access for veterans who rely on these spaces. The board acknowledged the potential risk to traffic flow and the likelihood of increased accidents at the intersection of Roberson and Pine Streets, where cars frequently roll into oncoming traffic.

The board discussed the necessity of comprehensive community engagement. Lec confirmed that abutters had been informed of the meeting, yet concerns linger about the broader impact on parking once the apartment building is completed. Estimates suggest the building’s parking provisions may not suffice, likely increasing pressure on adjacent street parking. The board also considered how the opening of a nearby park might further complicate the parking situation.

14:32Adding to the complexity, the board discussed potential difficulties for trash collection trucks navigating the area, necessitating certain no-parking restrictions. Despite these challenges, board members agreed on the need for a holistic approach to the situation and opted to postpone discussions until the fire department could contribute.

14:48Another issue addressed was the request from Niagara Street residents to revert the street back to one-way traffic. Matthew Texar, a resident living at the corner of Foster and Warren, articulated the confusion resulting from the street’s conversion to two-way traffic when Keller Williams moved into the area. Texar noted that drivers often find themselves accidentally traveling in the wrong direction, creating potential hazards at intersections. A resident further emphasized safety concerns, particularly the risks posed to children playing soccer nearby, labeling the situation “an accident waiting to happen.”

The board agreed to table this request. The board also noted the resident’s suggestion to reduce the street’s speed limit from 30 miles per hour to 25 to curb dangerous driving behavior.

19:20The meeting transitioned to a series of requests for handicap parking spaces across Fall River. An application from 23 McGowan Street was swiftly approved, with the board noting the 12-week timeline for sign installation. Similarly, a request from 188 Kilburn Street was approved following a brief review of the provided documentation. A third request from 55 Almy Street was tabled pending verification of registration details.

25:28An applicant from 8052nd Street encountered issues due to an expired registration but was encouraged to return with updated documentation. The board highlighted the importance of valid paperwork. Despite this, the board provisionally approved the request, conditional on the submission of current documentation.

30:15Another request from 211 Wage Street was promptly approved, given that all necessary documents were in order, including a valid placard for a disabled child. In contrast, the board handled a traffic department request to rescind several unused handicap parking spaces due to relocations or cessation of driving by prior occupants. The motion to rescind these spaces passed without debate.