Business group asks Exeter to back traffic-signal study at Pearl Harbor Village; council requests proponent return with details

A representative of Sweet Spot dispensary told the council the business and neighboring property owners believe a traffic signal is warranted at the Pearl Harbor Village intersection and asked the town to partner with them in pursuing state DOT review.

Blake Costa, speaking for Sweet Spot, said his team hired a traffic engineer and believes signal warrants are met by peak-day counts; he said DOT had told the proponents to consult the town and that the developer community could share study costs. Costa said the business contributes “over a quarter million dollars on average each year in tax revenue to this town” and emphasized willingness to provide labor and some fiscal contribution for further study, but asked the council not to be left holding major costs alone.

Council members and staff discussed the process: DOT requires a traffic study that shows Federal Highway Administration signal warrants and a physical alteration permit. Members asked whether the town would contribute financially; the proponent estimated a design-and-construction ballpark that could range widely — “anywhere from 150 to 400,000” — but framed that as a rough estimate subject to DOT and design decisions. Several council members said specifics were needed to make an informed decision.

A motion carried to invite the proponent to return next month with a written presentation and supporting materials; the council also suggested the proponent provide accident data, the DOT email thread, and a clearer cost breakdown. The proponent agreed to provide those materials in advance of the next meeting.