The MBTA’s presentation to the Revere Traffic Commission focused on the bus network redesign program, which is set out to reflect the changing travel patterns and enhance bus services in Revere and neighboring cities. Central to the discussion were the proposed modifications to Route 110 and the consolidation of Route 116 and 117, promising a substantial increase in service. The redesign would result in Route 110 buses running every 15 minutes or better throughout the week from early morning until after midnight. Additionally, the merged Route 116 would offer 133% more service than currently provided by the two separate routes.

The MBTA representatives, Olivia Moate and Becca Wolson, outlined the need for a more straightforward, legible, and accessible transfer location between Park and Central on Broadway, facilitating better connectivity between the redesigned routes. They suggested the introduction of new bus stops and the closure and alteration of existing ones to improve the transfer experience. However, concerns arose regarding the proximity of the proposed bus stops to the fire station and the impact on its operations. Questions were raised about the potential conflicts this could cause, especially with vehicles making right turns onto Park Avenue from Broadway.

The proposed layout changes include converting outer lanes into bus lanes during peak hours and installing transit signal priority systems to give buses precedence at intersections. This aims to reduce walking distances for individuals with mobility impairments and minimize pedestrian crossings at a busy intersection. Over 500 bus riders pass through during rush hour, and the proposed changes would affect hundreds daily. The plan also involves the removal of existing bike lanes, with shared lanes added for bicycles, and an upgrade to sidewalks at bus stop locations in compliance with Federal accessibility guidelines.

However, these modifications sparked debates over their effectiveness, traffic impacts, and overall benefits. Concerns regarding the removal of parking spaces at certain stops were also raised. In response to these potential issues, the commission discussed the installation of a bus shelter on Park Avenue and benches on Broadway, with only a minimal impact on parking spaces expected. Further details on the implementation and impact of the transit signal priority system will be provided at a later time.

In a separate but related issue, the commission discussed the allowance of vehicles with pupil plates to park on city streets, treating them the same as commercial vehicles with corresponding restrictions and fees. With only 41 pupil plates registered in Revere, all to city taxpayers, the commission moved this request to a public hearing for more in-depth discussion. Similarly, a proposal to amend parking restrictions for vehicles with pupil plates was tabled due to concerns about the potential broader impact on city parking.

The commission also considered a request to amend schedule 8 of title 10 restrictions, adding Gibson Park to the no parking zone during specific hours. This was in response to excessive parking by contractors, which limited availability for park users. The possibility of extending the parking time limit to three hours to accommodate park users was also discussed. Furthermore, there was a request to remove a residential parking sticker for a specific address to alleviate parking scarcity for residents, particularly those with newly driving-age children.

Additionally, the commission deliberated on requests for traffic calming measures near the Senior Center on Winthrop Avenue and adjustments to parking restrictions on Foster Street due to ongoing construction. Both items were moved to public hearings for further evaluation.

Public hearings held during the meeting provided a platform for community members to express their opinions on various proposed amendments, including the addition of stop signs at certain intersections and the conversion of a one-way street to a two-way street to improve parking access and fire truck maneuverability. The commission approved several of these proposals, reflecting community input and discussions on street signs and parking regulations.