In a recent meeting of the Plymouth Planning Board, discussions centered around traffic patterns and safety improvements at a key intersection on South Street. As the evening unfolded, board members and residents alike focused on the pressing need to address traffic flow and accident rates in the area.

The meeting revealed that approximately 30% of traffic at the intersection is headed north, while 60% travels south, with the remaining 10% directed toward a nearby school. This distribution, based on existing traffic patterns and census data, highlighted the significant volume of vehicles navigating the intersection during peak hours.

To enhance safety, the board reviewed a series of recommendations aimed at improving site access and traffic management. Key proposals included widening driveways to a minimum of 22 feet, implementing stop signs for vehicles exiting the project site, and ensuring compliance with emergency vehicle access standards. Additionally, plans for sidewalk connections to South Street were discussed, with two locations earmarked for new pathways to facilitate pedestrian movement.

A major concern raised during the meeting was the alarming number of accidents at the intersection, with 20 crashes reported between 2017 and 2021. The data indicated that many incidents involved vehicles making turns onto South Street, often exacerbated by limited sight lines due to overgrown vegetation. In response, the board proposed several traffic calming measures, including narrowing the intersection to reduce vehicle speeds and enhance pedestrian safety.

Further recommendations included the installation of radar speed signs to monitor and reduce speeding, as well as improved signage and pavement markings to increase visibility for drivers. These enhancements aim not only to inform motorists of speed limits but also to collect valuable data for law enforcement to target speeding during peak times.

The board also addressed the need for a designated school bus waiting area, ensuring that children can safely wait for their bus away from the street. This area will be strategically placed to avoid obstructing traffic while maintaining visibility for drivers.

As the meeting concluded, the board expressed optimism that these comprehensive improvements would significantly enhance safety and traffic flow at the intersection, addressing both resident concerns and the pressing need for effective traffic management in Plymouth. The proposed changes reflect a commitment to creating a safer environment for all road users, particularly the community's children.