14:16At the forefront of the meeting was a request to reduce the speed limit on Campbell Avenue from 25 miles per hour to 20 miles per hour, specifically between Centennial and River Beach Parkway. This request, initiated by Mayor Patrick M. Keefe Jr., came in response to resident concerns about speeding vehicles, exacerbated by ongoing construction in the area. A local resident supported this change during the meeting, citing the need for enhanced safety measures, especially in residential areas. The Commission acknowledged the importance of this issue, agreeing to forward the request to a public hearing for more examination.

21:31Another major topic was the ongoing Better Bus Network pilot project, presented by representatives from the MBTA and the Department of Planning and Community Development. The pilot, launched in December 2024, aims to streamline bus services along Broadway, Park, and Central avenues by consolidating bus routes and introducing frequent service for the first time in Revere. Project managers highlighted the improvements in bus service and pedestrian safety, noting that the pilot has received positive feedback from riders. The new setup eliminated previous long walking distances for bus transfers, enhancing the convenience for daily commuters. However, some concerns were raised regarding the tight turns at intersections, which continue to pose challenges for buses and large vehicles. The Commission discussed potential solutions, including adjusting stop bars and signal timing, to better accommodate these vehicles.

59:08The meeting also addressed parking-related proposals, particularly in the Shirley Avenue district. A proposal to install 44 new parking meters in this area was discussed. The Director of the Traffic Commission explained that the reintroduction of meters, which had been removed in 2019, is necessary to support business growth and improve parking turnover. The proposal includes implementing 15-minute parking sensors to facilitate short-term parking for quick visits. This change is intended to align Revere’s parking rates with those of surrounding communities, promoting a business-friendly environment while ensuring adequate parking availability for residents and visitors alike.

In addition to the new meters, a suggestion was made to modify existing parking spaces to better accommodate local businesses. This proposal included reducing the number of parking spaces on certain streets and implementing clear communication strategies to minimize confusion among residents and enforcement personnel. The Commission agreed to hold a public hearing to gather more community input on these parking adjustments.

01:15:10The Commission deliberated on various requests for traffic calming measures, particularly on Crescent Avenue and Walnut Avenue. On Crescent Avenue, the installation of removable speed pillows and a four-way stop sign was recommended to address speeding concerns. Conversely, the data collected for Walnut Avenue showed minimal speeding, leading to a recommendation for educational measures and the installation of pedestrian-activated flash beacons. The Commission recognized the importance of community feedback in shaping these decisions, agreeing to schedule public hearings to further explore these proposals.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the feasibility of installing shelters at bus stops with high ridership, as part of efforts to enhance public transportation infrastructure. The MBTA expressed interest in adding shelters where feasible, acknowledging the challenges and benefits associated with such installations. The focus remains on ensuring accessibility and comfort for public transit users while balancing the practical constraints of urban planning.