Slow down on Grimes Hill, and everywhere else
NEWFANE — NEWFANE - According to discussion during the “unscheduled members of the public” portion of the Aug. 1 regular Selectboard meeting, many of Newfane's roads are plagued with speeding drivers.
When resident Deb Luskin addressed the Board about ongoing speeding on Grimes Hill Road, nearly every Board member added their own story of drivers going too fast on town highways, including roads where small children live. Some Board members attributed the poor driving to younger drivers.
This isn't the first time Luskin complained to the Board about dangerous drivers on the road.
“It seems like nothing's happened since I addressed you guys a year ago,” she said.
Luskin asked the Board to account for the money allocated in the current budget for a “smart box,” which displays a car's speed on a flashing digital sign. Administrative Assistant Shannon Meckle said the funding for the device “got pushed out of the budget at the last minute.” Meckle and Board Vice-Chair Carol Hatcher assured Luskin funding for the smart box is on the list for this year's budget talks.
Board Chair Todd Lawley and Board member Mike Fitzpatrick agreed Meckle should contact Lt. Tim Oliver of the Vermont State Police to ask for an increase in traffic patrols in the problem areas.
“They could pile up a whole bunch of tickets,” Luskin said.
She encouraged the Board to begin educating drivers on safety now, before the arch bridge is closed for replacement and a detour is implemented.
“If we all haven't been run over by then,” Luskin said.
September board meeting change
NEWFANE - Because the first regular Selectboard meeting in September is scheduled for Labor Day, at their Aug. 1 regular meeting the Board agreed to change the upcoming meeting date.
The Selectboard will meet on Tuesday, Sept. 6, at 6 p.m., in the Town Offices. The public is welcome to attend this, and all, Selectboard meetings.