The most notable discussion centered around the Haven Street streetscape project. The town engineer, accompanied by a consultant from the Beta Group, presented plans aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety, accessibility, and green space along Haven Street. The project goals include reducing impervious surfaces, improving pedestrian crosswalks, and enhancing vehicular traffic conditions. Specific design elements such as expanded train depot plaza with additional trees, bump-outs at intersections to slow vehicle traffic, and raised crosswalks to improve safety were highlighted.

The presentation included visuals of the project area, particularly focusing on intersections at Haven Street, High Street, and Washington Street. The proposed changes to pedestrian crossings aim to reduce the time pedestrians spend in the roadway, thus increasing their visibility to drivers. Traffic signal upgrades at the High Street intersection will feature full pedestrian control, allowing pedestrians to stop traffic while crossing. However, the feasibility of signalizing the Washington Street intersection was questioned, leading the focus to improve pedestrian crossings instead.

Concerns regarding parking loss were a part of the discussion. The project is expected to result in the removal of 27 parking spaces, with the majority affected on High Street. Adjustments to accessible parking were also discussed, with modifications resulting in some spaces being lost due to necessary bump-outs and crosswalks. A participant stressed, “we can’t lose parking down there,” emphasizing the importance of maintaining parking to support local businesses.

Community feedback played a role in shaping the project. A business forum held previously garnered valuable input. The project team emphasized their commitment to incorporating public feedback and balancing safety enhancements with parking availability.

In another significant topic, the board discussed the MBTA community zoning initiative, which has been an ongoing effort involving extensive outreach and surveys. Two zoning concepts were reviewed: one proposing an expansion of the A80 zoning district near Summit Towers to allow increased density while maintaining downtown controls, and the other focusing on maximizing affordable housing units in the downtown area and along Main Street. The first concept proposes expanding multifamily development to accommodate up to 30 units per acre, whereas the second concept aims for a higher rate of affordability in downtown zones, proposing a maximum density of 35 units per acre.

Community concerns about increasing density, particularly along Main Street, were highlighted.

The board also addressed personnel changes in the health department, announcing the retirement of Fire Chief Greg Burns, who has served the community for nearly 40 years. The search for a new Chief is forthcoming. Additionally, Olivia, a new advocate, joined the health department, which is in the process of hiring a health inspector to achieve full staffing.

The approval of a shared services intermunicipal agreement with the Middlesex Essex Public Health Collaborative was another key point. The collaborative, comprising six municipalities including Reading, aims to enhance local public health services through cross-jurisdictional sharing and increased planning and system accountability. The agreement outlines the governance structure and responsibilities.

Discussion also touched on improvements to the downtown area, focusing on accessibility and bike-friendly initiatives related to the Depot project. The addition of more accessible parking spots and ensuring proper design of accessible routes to crosswalks were emphasized. Bike parking was also considered, with plans for ample bike racks and amenities despite the challenges of narrow road conditions on Haven Street.

The board addressed ongoing issues in the Town Forest, including the removal of dead trees and management of invasive species. The removal process, divided into phases, is aimed at minimizing environmental impact while addressing public safety concerns. The board is seeking funding for phase four of tree removal and continued invasive species management.

Lastly, discussions on animal control bylaws led to proposed amendments aimed at improving public safety in the Town Forest. The new language would define effective voice control more clearly and limit handlers to a maximum of two off-leash dogs. This proposal aims to address conflicts between commercial dog walkers and other forest users.