August 1, 2024 By Carol Britton Meyer
The town is seeking feedback from the community about a proposal to install rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFB) near the downtown Hingham post office to enhance pedestrian and traffic safety.
“This is a critical [concern],” Select Board member Liz Klein said at a recent board meeting. Time is of the essence (in making improvements) “after soliciting public input and notifying Hingham Downtown Association merchants, abutters, and the historic districts commission.”
Town Administrator Tom Mayo will work with Town Engineer JR Frey to come up with various options to enhance safety at that location for community review and comment, including the RRFB proposal.
“[Improving safety in this area] is a high priority, and we need to move forward sooner rather than later after soliciting the public’s reaction,” Select Board Chair Joseph Fisher said this week following a presentation by Fry.
Select Board member William Ramsey said the crosswalk in front of the post office “might be the most dangerous one in the entire downtown area, with many near-misses.”
This issue will be included as an agenda item at an upcoming public meeting. Check the Select Board agenda on the town website for the date, time, and other information.
Residents wishing to share ideas or concerns are also encouraged to email the board.
I am perplexed by the hand ringing going on over this issue. I think either lower the speed limit to 10 miles per hour (and enforce it), or speed bumps, or both.
Raised crosswalks! Why does every town in Europe have them? Why do Freeport Me & Rheinbeck, NY have them? Because they work to slow and calm traffic. It is quite evident that flashing lights at places in Hingham do little to help safety. Deterrence is needed.