The meeting also addressed the redesign of Southeast Street, which is set for discussion in a combined meeting with the Transportation and Safety Committee and the Disability Access Advisory Committee on December 12th. This meeting will prioritize pre-submitted questions over open public commentary, focusing on traffic flow and the operation of proposed roundabouts. Members stressed the importance of community awareness regarding the project, especially with the anticipated opening of a new school by fall 2026, though uncertainty remains about the demolition timeline of the existing school.

Discussions on safe routes to school revealed that school zones for middle and high schools were approved by the Town Council, though the operational times of flashing school zone lights were a concern. Lights currently activate at 8:00 a.m., just before school starts at 8:10 a.m., prompting suggestions to adjust the timings to accommodate students arriving early or staying late for activities. Coordination between the town and schools was deemed necessary to ensure student safety.

The committee explored the potential for organizing a Bike Rodeo, engaging elementary schools in promoting bike and pedestrian safety. Interest was noted among physical education teachers, and a recent session at Crocker Farm received positive feedback from parents. The idea of a health and wellness policy to include bike safety education in elementary PE classes was also discussed, though it remains in early stages.

Infrastructure discussions focused on bike lanes and speed limits. Concerns were raised about the abrupt end of new bike lanes leading to narrow roads, posing risks for cyclists. The town aims to extend bike lanes towards Echo Hill and Amherst Woods. Challenges on Pelham Road and the need for land takings to widen sidewalks were noted, with comparisons drawn to similar projects requiring property losses in other regions.

Traffic safety for children commuting to Fort River Campus was a priority, with suggestions to create an off-road path across private land owned by Amethyst Farm. This would require cooperation from the Conservation Commission and possibly constructing bridges for safe river crossings. Meanwhile, speed limit discussions highlighted discrepancies in signage and the process for neighborhoods wishing to lower limits, referencing Springfield’s approach.

In other projects, the roundabout at Amity and University has secured funding and is progressing towards final design approval, though construction timelines remain unclear. The intersection of Route 116 and the Wine project is under active construction, projected for completion in spring.

Committee priorities moving forward include updating bicycle route maps and revisiting infrastructure improvements around the new school. The need for diverse representation within the committee was emphasized, aiming to reflect broader town demographics and include varied perspectives, such as car users and business representatives.