The Planning Board meeting held on March 25, 2025, in Danvers, Massachusetts, focused on critical transportation issues affecting the town. Key discussions revolved around roadway jurisdiction, public transportation options, and the potential for enhancing walkability in the community.

A detailed map presented during the meeting illustrated the different types of roads in Danvers. Green lines indicated roads accepted and maintained by the town, while pinkish lines represented unaccepted roads, and thick gray lines denoted those controlled by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). The discussion highlighted that the town manages 62% of its roadways, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing investments in these areas to address transportation challenges.

The meeting also addressed the limited public transportation services available in Danvers. Currently, fixed-route bus service is sparse, particularly after the discontinuation of a bus route due to low ridership. Notably, there is no reliable transit option to connect residents to the nearby commuter rail stations, which poses a significant barrier for those relying on public transport. The existing transit services primarily focus on access to the Liberty Tree Mall, rather than downtown Danvers.

Sidewalk connectivity was another critical topic. A map showed that outside of downtown, there is limited access to sidewalks, particularly in residential neighborhoods on the west side of the highways. This lack of connectivity can hinder walkability and contribute to isolation for residents without cars.

The meeting also referenced a recent study linking car ownership to life satisfaction. It suggested that individuals who rely on cars for more than half of their weekly activities reported lower happiness levels. This finding underscored the need for diverse transportation options, allowing residents to choose how they travel.

Additionally, the introduction of the Salem Skipper, a microtransit service, was discussed as a potential solution to enhance transportation options in Danvers. This on-demand service, which operates within a designated area, aims to complement existing transit services and improve accessibility for residents.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Planning Board meeting highlighted significant transportation challenges in Danvers, including limited public transit options and sidewalk connectivity. The board emphasized the need for strategic investments and the exploration of innovative solutions like microtransit to enhance mobility and overall quality of life for residents.