In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the establishment of a transportation subcommittee aimed at addressing local traffic concerns, particularly along French Street and Father Morrisette Boulevard. The meeting highlighted the need for traffic calming measures in the area, which has been described as a \"speedway\" in recent years.
Councilor Jeunesse proposed the formation of the subcommittee, which is scheduled to convene on November 16 at Riley School. This initiative follows a year of collaborative efforts involving community members and stakeholders, including residents from Andover Street and Belvidere.
Liz, a key contributor to the discussions, provided an overview of the conceptual design for the French Street and Father Morrisette Boulevard project. She noted that the project aims to transform the current roadway into a more pedestrian-friendly environment, accommodating both cyclists and vehicles. The initial phase of the project, estimated to cost over $10 million, will focus on a section from Bridge Street to Aiken Drive, covering nearly half a mile.
The redesign will include improvements such as enhanced crosswalks and bike lanes, with two options being considered for the intersection at Aiken Drive. The officials emphasized the importance of creating a neighborhood feel, moving away from the existing wide boulevard that lacks adequate capacity for community needs.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue engaging with various stakeholders, including local institutions and historical organizations, to ensure a comprehensive approach to the project.