The meeting also addressed Councilor McKenna’s request to establish two lanes on Winter Avenue towards Broadway and on Beach Street towards Winter Avenue. The request was driven by safety concerns over the absence of proper lines separating lanes.

A representative from the MBTA presented changes to bus routes, including stop consolidations on the east side of Broadway and sidewalk improvements at new bus stop locations. The commission sought clarification on how proposed transit signalization would reduce the time buses spend in intersections and debated the impact on parking spaces and traffic flow. The technical difficulties experienced during the presentation did not hinder the detailed examination of the proposed changes’ minimal impact on traffic flow and the need to balance stop spacing.

Various concerns were expressed during the meeting, including from representatives of the fire and police departments. They raised issues about the proximity of bus stops to the fire station, potential congestion, and the impact on traffic flow and safety, especially when making turns at intersections. Additionally, the commission considered the potential effects on pedestrians with disabilities due to the relocation of bus stops.

A proposal for a trial implementation period was put forth to assess the impact of the proposed changes. The length of this assessment period sparked debate among commission members, with suggestions ranging from 90 days to six months.

The commission further deliberated on amendments to parking regulations. The approval of adding 23 parking spaces designated for handicapped persons was straightforward, with a letter from the parking director and no opposition. Similarly, the removal of a handicapped parking space no longer needed was approved without controversy.

However, a proposal to allow parking of vehicles with pupil plates in non-resident parking areas prompted a debate due to concerns over the potential misuse for livery purposes. It was argued that this could be exploited by livery or taxi services, despite the intent being to assist residents in transporting students. Consequently, the motion was tabled until input from the parking enforcement office could be obtained.

Other parking issues included the discussion of amending schedule 13 of title 10 to add towing restrictions at Gibson Park, prompted by the increased number of vehicles parking there due to nearby construction projects. Additionally, the commission entertained a motion to deny the removal of 145 Harris Street from the resident parking sticker section due to concerns about parking variance development.

Addressing traffic concerns, the commission moved requests for traffic calming speed bumps on Mountain Avenue and for a traffic sign amendment on Cambridge Street to public hearings for further evaluation. Confusion arose over a request to amend parking restrictions on River Street, which also led to a decision for further evaluation at a public hearing.

The commission approved the removal of a handicap parking sign on Kimble Avenue without the need for a public hearing. A request for stop signs on Tuda Street was noted, but further evaluation and discussion were deemed necessary.