In response to speeding concerns on Mount Ave, a speed bump will be installed, as agreed upon by both the city engineer and the commission. The measure is intended to promote safety on the straight road where speeding has been an issue. The commission also approved a proposal to amend the direction of Cambridge Street, converting it into a one-way street to alleviate cut-through traffic and enhance safety. While some commission members voiced reservations about the potential displacement of traffic to other areas, the majority voted in favor of the change.

Parking regulation amendments on River Ave were also approved to resolve ticketing issues faced by residents. This change is part of the commission’s efforts to streamline parking rules and improve the enforcement process. Additionally, the commission received requests from the mayor for the installation of a speed bump on Walnut Ave, which was referred to a public hearing, and the consideration of a “no left turn” from Northshore Road to Cove Street during school hours to ease congestion and improve safety for students crossing the street. The latter remains under consideration, with further input and approval from the state anticipated before proceeding.

Amidst these discussions, safety around Cove Street during school hours was a prominent concern, with reports of vehicles blocking intersections, executing illegal U-turns, and creating noise disturbances with persistent honking. A proposal was put forward to restrict left turns from Northshore Road onto Cove Street during school hours. However, this proposal raised questions about signage, enforcement, and impact on residents, leading to the decision to table the issue pending state approval.

The commission also moved a request to amend schedule 11 of title 10 for handicap person parking at a specific address to a public hearing.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation by William Meritz regarding the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Safe Routes to School Program. The city has been awarded a grant for improvements around Beachmont Elementary School and Veterans Memorial School. The planned improvements, scheduled for fiscal year 27, include ADA-compliant ramp upgrades, sidewalk improvements, and the addition of a shared use path. Concerns about how curbing installations could affect parking on Bellisle Street were discussed, and the commission concurred to proceed with the design phase.

During public comments, questions arose about the impact of the proposed improvements on bus stops and sidewalks along Bennington Street. There was clarification that the scope of the project would not alter the intersection of Bennington and Everard, as it relates to mitigation from the Suffolk Downs project.