HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-01-13-TMG-minTraffic Mitistation Group Meeting
January 13, 2009
Present: Richard Canale, David Cannon, Elaine Dratch, Aaron Henry, Jeanne Krieger, John
Livsey, Christine McVay, Arthur Smith, Gail Wagner, Susan Yanofsky
Introduction of Town Engineer
➢ John Livsey, new Town Engineer, introduced himself presenting his professional
background that includes municipal engineering experience in Westford and Billerica.
Draft Traffic Mitigation Overlay (TMO) District
➢ Aaron Henry of the Planning Department presented a draft document of a TMO district
proposal pertinent to Harwell Avenue zoning (TMO -HA).
➢ Purpose is to "facilitate construction of infrastructure improvements to the circulation and
transportation systems of the Town in order to secure the health, safety, and general
welfare of the community."
➢ It would apply to Commercial and Manufacturing (CM) that includes Research and
Development (RD) zoned structures when building changes are made within a defined
parameter of floor area ratio (FAR). FAR changes would trigger a "site plan review."
➢ The developer would have the option to follow the existing town TDM policy (bring any
impacted intersection to acceptable service level) or the new TMO. A choice is offered
since the State prohibits direct impact fees. State must approve proposed TMO policy.
➢ TMO would include contribution to a town mitigation fund for infrastructure that may
address sidewalk and bus shelter construction. And, development of a plan to reduce
single occupancy vehicles (SOV) trips onto the property. An annual report would be
required with financial penalties for non - compliance to SOV reductions.
➢ Cambridge's traffic management program was noted as a model for SOV reduction.
➢ The draft was a response to development issues on Hartwell Avenue raised at the 2008
Town Meeting. Aaron was commended for his efforts.
➢ Draft policy is viewed as an interim document requiring more specifics.
➢ Draft does not address TMO specifics such funding formula for contributions to
infrastructure fund, town staffing, creation of Hartwell Transportation Management
Association (TMA), and management of surrounding neighborhood's traffic concerns.
Funding Mobility Improvements on Bedford St at Route 128
➢ Town of Lexington submitted to the State a list of projects for the federal economic
stimulus program.
➢ List included mobility improvements along Bedford Street including: installation of
traffic signals at Eldred Street, Wood Street and Maguire Road, sidewalks on Hartwell
Avenue, Bedford Road jug handle loop detectors, and Hartwell Avenue traffic study.
➢ Federal stimulus funding for these project is unlikely. But, State solicited projects and
Lexington responded.
➢ CTPS Hartwell study to posture for TIP funds was suggested. Value of a study was
questioned in light of CTPS' Routes 4/225 study that has not resulted in funding.
Minutes submitted by Gail Wagner, Transportation Services, January 23, 2009
Next Meeting, February 24, 9:30 am, Room 111