|Anne Maurice, BLING|
As we approach the colder months, New Gloucester residents are turning to home projects and preparations for winter. However, there is a concern that continues to be on residents’ minds. The “Getting Around” sub-group of Building Livability in New Gloucester (BLING) had a table at the Fire Department Open House on Sat, Oct 16, where people easily talked with us again about how they don’t feel safe walking on the roads in their neighborhoods because of speeding traffic.
We heard the same fears at the Community Fair in August and the same concern showed up on the BLING summer 2022 survey. People have mentioned Penny Road, Mayall Road, Jack Hall Road, Bald Hill Road, Gloucester Hill Road, Snow Hill Road, Sabbathday Road, Intervale (Route 231), Lewiston Road (Route 100) – it doesn’t matter where people live – the story is the same. Drivers are going too fast and not paying attention to walkers, bicyclists, runners, and other non-motorized users of our roads.
Drivers can take personal responsibility and slow down and drive at the speed limit. When you drive the posted speed limit, others behind you do the same. We encourage you to join the 50 or so residents who signed our Pledge sheet at the events.
I will:
• Drive the posted speed limit on all roads.
• Share the road with residents who are walking, biking, running, using a wheelchair or pushing carriages.
• Stop to let pedestrians cross and be courteous to all other road users.
I will not:
• Use my phone to talk or text while driving unless it is hands free.
• Drink and drive.
• Insult or yell at other drivers.
Walkers and runners can also do something by being very visible when using the road. It helps to wear bright colors and use lights on bicycles. We encourage you to talk to Town officials about your experiences.
The New Gloucester Select Board and Town management can do something about this problem.
• Add the issue to a Select Board meeting and discuss some solutions.
• Budget and approve money for electronic speed signs to be used around New Gloucester. These signs help drivers remember the speed limit and check their speed.
Our community can come together for the safety and health of all New Gloucester residents.
