Waverly Pedestrian Island To Stay Put Due Safety Concerns

FRAMINGHAM, MA — The Framingham Traffic Commission will leave a Waverly Street pedestrian island in place after members expressed concerns about the safety of people crossing the busy road.

The commission was examining a change to the island, which sits just west of Route 126 between the commuter rail station and Miranda Bread, because left-turning traffic often backs up around the concrete structure and into the eastbound Waverly Street thru lane. The problem is typically worse when trains cross Concord Street, which often coincides with morning and afternoon rush hours.

Under a plan presented by a traffic consultant, Framingham could spend about $69,000 to move the pedestrian island farther west along Waverly, creating a longer left-turn lane. Removing the island completely would cost about $47,000.

As it stands, the left turn lane can fit up to 14 cars. Moving the island west would provide about 140 more feet for vehicles. Removing the island completely would provide about 230 feet of turning room.

One business owner, the Brazilian steakhouse Framingham Station, opposed moving the island because it allows customers to cross the busy street. Chair William Sedewitz said no one else responded either from the neighborhood or city departments when he asked for input on the decision.

Member Mario Alvarez moved to approve a third option: removing the island, but leaving the crosswalk in place and installing a flashing beacon.

Framingham police Lt. Harry Wareham, a member of the commission, said removing the island would leave pedestrians unprotected from drivers. For example, a pedestrian might get hit if they emerged from in front of a large vehicle stopped at the crosswalk and into the turning lane, he said. The island is there to stop cars from speeding across the crosswalk.

Alvarez' motion ultimately failed with two commissioners in favor, four opposed.