Council debates heavy vehicle routes and Whitney Street detour options

The Traffic Safety Committee of Northborough, Massachusetts, convened on April 8, 2025, to discuss pressing concerns regarding heavy vehicle traffic and safety on local roads, particularly Whitney Street. The committee is grappling with the implications of a bridge weight limit that has been in place for approximately five to six years, which has led to increased heavy vehicle traffic on residential streets.

Committee members expressed concerns about the narrowness of Whitney Street, especially in residential areas, where large vehicles can pose significant safety risks. The discussion highlighted the challenges of finding suitable alternate routes for heavy vehicles, as many local streets are deemed inappropriate for such traffic. Suggestions included temporarily suspending heavy vehicle access on Whitney Street, but members noted that this could lead to a decade-long detour for trucks, complicating logistics for local businesses.

The committee also explored the possibility of implementing a heavy vehicle exclusion on Barefoot Road, which is adjacent to industrial areas. However, it was noted that vehicles with business on that street would still be allowed access, complicating enforcement. The conversation underscored the need for a logical route for heavy vehicles, as current options often lead to illogical detours through neighboring towns.

Members acknowledged the necessity of addressing these issues without rushing to a decision, emphasizing the importance of considering all factors involved. The committee plans to reach out to local businesses to gather insights on their delivery needs and potential solutions to the ongoing traffic concerns.

As the committee continues to deliberate, the safety of Northborough's roads remains a top priority, with potential long-term impacts on both traffic management and local businesses.