HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002-10-29-TSAC-minTown of Lexington Traffic Safety Advisory Committee
MEMORANDUM
#0310
TO Leo McSweeney, Chairman
Board of Selectmen
FROM: David T. Carbonneau, P.E.,
Traffic Safety Advisory Committee
DATE: 12/12/02
SUBJECT: TSAC Minutes from October 29, 2002
The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee met on October 29, 2002 to discuss the following issues
brought before us:
Crosswalks along Massachusetts Aven in ingto r Center at Federal Savings Bank,
LexingtonFlick and Battlegree Inn.
d jBarbara Barrows representing the Enablement Committee expressed difficulty and fear for safety in
crossing Massachusetts Avenue, especially for persons with special needs. The unsafe situation was
described as a deterrent from patronizing Center businesses. Ms. Barrows felt pedestrian controlled
lights would protect pedestrians at crosswalks. Richard Landau thanked the committee for its
support of the planned audible traffic signal at Waltham and Mass Ave. As an individual with
limited sight, he expressed the advantage of raising his white cane prior to entering a crosswalk.
From the perspective of drivers, Mr.Landau felt the impact of crosswalks on the flow of traffic was
frustrating and suggested that coordinated pedestrian signals at existing crosswalks may improve
traffic flow Ann Frymer presented her experience in crossing at the light. at Mass Ave by the East
Lexington Library. She felt that the timing of the light was so quick that she and a child in her care
were unable to cross safely. She also noted that adults with children look for traffic lights to cross
streets. Paul Hamburger asked if criteria could be developed that would help standardize the
placement of crosswalks. A discussion regarding possible remedies included: a series of timed
lights on Mass Ave, a new configuration of crosswalks, posted speed limits, increased police
enforcement, replacement of crosswalks with traffic signals, posting of speed limits. It was noted
that one -third of all requests before TSAC involve pedestrian signals. Drivers in the Center are
generally more responsive to crosswalks in comparisons to other areas in Lexington. Safety, traffic
flow and expense must guide any action.
Recommendation: Committee does not support additional pedestrian signals in the Center. The
Committee believes that other areas of Lexington are in far more need of increased pedestrian
accommodation than the Center. With the recent increase in police officers, enforcement efforts in
the Center should improve crosswalk compliance. The new signal at Waltham and Massachusetts
Avenue, operative next spring, should also have a positive impact on pedestrian safety in the
Center.
Signage and Lining on Piper Road
Rebecca Holmes representing Temple Emunah voiced concern about the lane encroachment by
vehicles using Piper Road. The temple is continuously used for scheduled programs throughout the
week. The temple has initiated numerous efforts to educate patrons to safe driving practices on this
I narrow winding road. Drivers frequently approach it as a one -way street.
Recommendation: A centerline would be most effective in alerting the public. Lining will be
coordinated with the DPW Highway Department, but may not be addressed until next Spring.
Convex Mirror for Driveway, 63 Oak Street
Ramin Taraz, resident of 63 Oak Street, presented photos as to site obstructions as seen from his
driveway. The most prominent obstruction was a large bush on his neighbor's property. It was
noted that many Lexington driveways have visibility issues. It was also noted that the DPW does
f A not have the resources nor the expertise to mount and maintain convex mirrors. However, the DPW
would permit Mr. Taraz to install a mirror in the right of way provided it met applicable safety
standards.
Recommendation: Mr. Taraz was encouraged to speak directly to his neighbor about trimming the
bush. If a letter of explanation was desired, the DPW Engineering staff would provide one. DPW
Engineering guidance was offered to Mr. Taraz if he opted to independently purchase a convex
mirror.
Student Parking on Worthen Road from 118 to 128
/ Randy Green, property owner of 118 Worthen Road and resident of 128 Worthen Road, observed
' that student parking on Worthen Rd has gotten progressively worse as manifested by blocked
driveways, rutted front lawns, and litter. In recent months, her property at 118 Worthen was on the
market and did not sell. She attributed it in large measure to the negative impact of student parking.
She asked for signage to protect this residential area. Captain Corr commented that police
enforcement of parking ordinances on Worthen Road is ongoing. He also noted that 50 parking
spaces would be opened on campus at the high school within a month due to the removal of
construction trailers.
Recommendation: It was recommended that a parking regulation be made prohibiting parking
during school hours in front of private residences from 118 through 132 and on the opposite side at
the residence located between Captain Parker Arms and Ryder Lane.
Dist: Richard J. White; Town Manager, William Hadley; DPW Director; Peter Chalpin; Town
Engineer; Gail Wagner Transportation Director