Why Red, White and Blue May Not Be Painted on Main Street

The Hingham Traffic Committee does not think it would be wise for the town to permanently paint the red, white, and blue centerline  on Main Street.

 Last Fourth of July, the center line along the Main Street parade route was painted America’s colors: red , white, and blue, and this year, many people around town want to repaint it those colors permanently.

According to the Board Of Selectmen, the traffic committee has genuine and strong concerns that if painted, it will pose risk to public and it should be avoided.  Town Administrator Ted Alexiades  said earlier this week that the committee has concerns that if a vehicle crosses the red, white, and blue lines and causes an accident, the injured party can sue the town.

Alexiades noted that there have been some cases in other towns involving legal action taken after vehicles that inadvertently crossed over a faded yellow center line.

Selectman Laura Burns said it would be devastating to the town if the patriotic colors are not painted and she said supporting the concept was one of the most popular votes.

Hockley Drive Resident Bob Fournier was present at the Selectman meeting  and he did not understand why Hingham could not paint the patriotic colors on Main Street.

“A red, white, and blue centerline is very patriotic,” Fournier said

 Fournier pointed out that Peabody, Mass. has red,white, and blue centerlines on two of its main roads.  He thinks Hingham should look into how the town of Peabody approved these decisions.  Assistant Town Administrator Betty Foley also noted that Bristol, R.I. also has a red, white, and blue centerline and that the town was granted permission through special legislation.

The Selectmen decided to further explore and research the possibilies and report back to the town at the June 14 meeting.