Committee approves $69,709 transfer for pedestrian warning lights at Salem and Bow

The committee approved an order to transfer $69,709 from the Traffic and Safety Infrastructure Fund to a Salem and Bow Pedestrian Safety account to pay for consultant design work and installation of pedestrian flashing warning lights near the intersection used by local schoolchildren.

Councilors and the mayor described the intersection as heavily traveled and a primary route to a school. Councilor DeMers said the measure was “an important piece of legislation for our constituents” and urged prompt action to reduce the risk to students. Committee members discussed consultant placement of the lights to minimize future rework if the intersection is later redesigned.

The motion to transfer the funds was made, seconded and approved by voice vote. Councilors also noted the broader need for similar safety treatments at other locations and discussed pursuing state grant funding for a wider program of pedestrian safety upgrades.