Shared
Streets programs allow streets in residential areas to be utilized by
abutters only, creating traffic calming and opening streets for more
walking, biking, etc.
Streets will be chosen based on nomination from residents.
The City of Medford’s residential Shared Streets program is returning for summer/fall 2021, by resident request.
In
2020, in response to COVID-19, the City launched a pilot program on
three streets. In 2021, the City has seen excitement for these programs
to return and is re-opening applications for street nominations for our
residential program.
In
order to be selected, the City asks that nominated streets show strong
support from people who live on and around the street. The nomination
form is available at https://bit.ly/medford-shared-streets21.
Due to a limited amount of equipment, we may not be able to accommodate
all nominated streets, but will select streets from a variety of
neighborhoods to the greatest extent possible. For our Shared Streets
program, secondary/side streets will be considered. Main streets will
not be considered for this portion of the program. Nominations for round
one are open through July 21st.
Shared
streets are temporary interventions with cones and signage to give
people more space to get around in their neighborhoods car-free and
safely. Local traffic, deliveries, and emergency vehicles will still
have access to the street, but these interventions look to discourage
cut through-traffic and prioritize the safe use of streets for
pedestrians and bicyclists. Shared streets are a great way to maintain
social distancing and stay safe during COVID-19 and beyond while
enjoying the outdoors.
For
the initial round of residential Shared Streets in 2021, five streets
will be selected. We anticipate opening a subsequent round to support a
few more streets should there be enough equipment remaining.
Selected
streets are available for all to use even if they don’t live on the
street. Streets that are chosen will be given the necessary materials
and signage to indicate the designation as a 'Shared Street' but police
enforcement will not be present. Instead, we encourage you to utilize
neighbor connections to keep everyone informed about changes to your
street. Thank you for nominating your street!
In considering residents’ requests, the City plans to rank proposals using criteria including but not limited to:
- Streets within “environmental justice areas”
- Public streets (vs. private ways)
- Streets that have been reported as high-speed zones to the Traffic Commission
- Ensure that requests are spread throughout the city and not clustered within a few specific areas
- Streets that were not selected for the Residential Shared Streets program in 2020
Medford’s
Shared Streets program on residential streets would include signage at
the entrance(s) to your street; no permanent or temporary furniture will
be added to your street during the pilot program.
If
you have any questions about this program please reach out to Anna
Cornish in the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability at ocd@medford-ma.gov.
Medford
city services are available to all residents, regardless of economic
situation, immigration status, ability, benefit eligibility, or
religious affiliation.
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