In My Opinion
|Anne Maurice|
Spring is beautiful in New Gloucester and it’s great to see folks outside walking, biking, playing sports and enjoying many other activities. However with the speeding cars and motorcycles……..it seems like everyone is in a hurry to get somewhere or nowhere.
I often walk on our roads, and I’m concerned there will be a bad accident in town between a car and a pedestrian or bicyclist. Upon reading the Fire and Rescue call log posted on NGX, multiple accidents happen every month. Driving around town, I observe walkers on the wrong side of the street or in dark clothing, bicyclists without lights, and cars passing me on double yellow lines. Let’s all slow down to keep our roads as safe as possible.
You may have noticed walkers with orange flags around town. A small group of residents is experimenting by walking with flags to remind folks to slow down. You also may have seen ‘SLOW ME DOWN’ signs posted around town. This is another way to remind drivers to stay alert behind the wheel.
Another speed reminder method that is used across the country is a Pace Car program. It is simple and all New Gloucester drivers can participate. In its basic form, residents pledge to drive the posted speed limits on New Gloucester roads; they agree not to text and drive; and they are attentive to the rules of the road. Stay tuned for more on this program. I know at least a dozen people who do this already. How about you?
Do you know the posted speed limits on these roads? ……
- Penny Road is 35 MPH
- Gloucester Hill is 30 MPH at the center of NG
- Intervale Road is 30 MPH at the center of NG
- Cobbs Bridge Road is 25 MPH
- Snow Hill is 35 MPH and 45 MPH
- Sabbathday Road is 35 MPH
- Morse Road is 35 MPH
Unfortunately, cars go much faster than the speed limit on these roads regularly. Please slow down, stay alert and remember that the roads are for everyone.
Anne Maurice
DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this opinion piece are solely those of the author. Publication does not reflect endorsement by the NGXchange or its volunteers. NGX welcomes diverse viewpoints and invites your submissions. Learn more here.
