Residents of Old Greenwich are rallying for the construction of sidewalks along Shore Road, a long-standing issue that has sparked passionate public comments during the recent Town Budget meeting. Advocates, including local residents and parents, voiced their concerns about pedestrian safety and accessibility to Tots Point Beach, the town's most popular park.

Liz Johnson, a resident and realtor, highlighted the dangers of walking along Shore Road, which lacks safe pedestrian pathways. She emphasized that the area, originally designed for horse-drawn carriages in the 1600s and 1700s, now sees a high volume of foot traffic from joggers and families. Johnson pointed out that potential homebuyers often inquire about sidewalks, indicating a growing demand for pedestrian-friendly infrastructure in the community.

Helen Delago, a lifelong resident, shared her experiences of navigating the area without sidewalks, recalling instances where her family had to drive to the beach due to safety concerns. She expressed her hope that the town would prioritize sidewalk construction to prevent accidents and enhance community access.

Nicole, an RTM member and mother of three, reinforced the urgency of the issue, citing over two decades of studies that consistently identify the need for sidewalks along this stretch of road. She noted that despite repeated assessments and recommendations, no action has been taken, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs over time.

Marcy Malloy echoed these sentiments, calling the need for sidewalks "unquestionably obvious." She urged the town council to take decisive action, framing the construction of sidewalks as a necessary step towards modernizing the community and ensuring the safety of its residents.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a growing consensus among residents that the lack of sidewalks poses a significant risk to pedestrians, particularly children and families. As the town considers its budget and future infrastructure projects, the call for sidewalks on Shore Road may become a pivotal issue in enhancing safety and accessibility for all community members.