PEABODY — City officials recently endorsed a $1.6 million plan to calm traffic and make it easier for pedestrians to navigate the Main Street corridor. Four travel lanes would be cut down to two with a turning lane, and pedestrian islands and "bump-outs" would be added at crosswalks.
On Friday, The Salem News asked pedestrians what they think of the plans.
Doug Tilley of Merrimac, an employee at GraVoc Associates on Main Street
"I had some questions about how they would implement it, but after reading about it, I have to say it sounds like a good idea. It would still let the traffic flow and turn, while slowing traffic for pedestrians."
Jim Ward of Peabody, with son Aidan, 5
"I live right off Main Street. It's a good idea. So many people drive up and down fast, crossing the street can be tricky. On walk lights, people blow through — some people aren't paying attention."
Michael Munroe, Peabody
"I live near here. I don't think it's that big a problem. Isn't there something more important they could do with that money? Maybe something for the homeless?"
Jean Cormier, Salem
"They need to do more about all the roads. I drive through Peabody every day, coming from Salem. You have to, to get to the highway, Route 128. It's a wonder there aren't more accidents in Peabody Square — so many people don't put their directionals on when they're changing lanes, and you don't know which way they're going. Today, I'm dropping off pamphlets at the library, and this traffic is also bad for pedestrians."
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