Traffic safety took center stage at the Leominster City Council meeting on March 24, 2025, as officials discussed the urgent need for a comprehensive traffic study. The conversation was sparked by concerns from residents about speeding and safety on local roads, particularly after a recent incident where a vehicle caused significant damage by crashing into utility poles.
Sergeant Robichaud highlighted informal discussions with the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission (MRPC), which indicated they could assist with a traffic study, but not until 2026. This timeline raised concerns among council members and residents, prompting suggestions to consider hiring an independent traffic engineer to expedite the evaluation process.
Resident Paul Gove, who lives near Gove Farm, expressed gratitude for temporary radar signs that had previously helped reduce speeding but noted a troubling increase in traffic speed since their removal. He urged the council to take swift action to improve safety measures, citing a recent accident that underscored the dangers of excessive speed on local roads.
Councilor Frida echoed the need for a traffic study, emphasizing that previous assessments had not justified changes to speed limits despite ongoing community concerns. The council agreed to reach out to the MRPC and explore options for a more immediate traffic evaluation.
As the meeting concluded, the council recognized the importance of addressing traffic safety and committed to pursuing further discussions and potential solutions in upcoming sessions. The urgency of the situation reflects a growing demand for proactive measures to ensure the safety of Leominster's roads.