Above: Have your bushes gotten too large? Or are there other ways in which you’ve blocked sidewalk access without thinking? (images edited from contributed photos)
Last summer, I alerted readers that the Southborough Police Department would be enforcing restrictions against parking on sidewalks. At that time, I shared examples from a presentation made by resident Tim Litt. He pointed out that while the Town is talking about investing in adding more sidewalks in town*, the ones we already have are obstructed too often.
His examples went beyond where people park. Today, he asked me to share a reminder.
Litt wrote,
Things improved as the police started enforcing the vehicle code and DPW addressed foliage. It seems the winter has dulled memories. . .
It’s not “just” about wheelchairs – it’s tricycles, strollers, dogs, people (especially young and old), luggage, walkers, runners – all forced into the street. Often where there’s no curb cut. . .
What we have must be respected, kept accessible, and maintained. A blocked sidewalk is not just an inconvenience, it’s a hazard.
Below are photos he provided as examples (though I blurred license plates and street addresses). Click on them for his captions explaining the issues:
Litt’s email noted that he will be returning to the Southborough Public Accessibility Committee to revisit the issue.
*The FY24 Town Budget includes $50,000 for sidewalk maintenance. The Select Board has also allocated over $700,000 of ARPA Funds to be used on Sidewalk Installations. That is a project that the Capital Improvement & Planning Committee has been asked to examine. The committee agreed to examine the issue, solicit public feedback on priorities for sidewalks and provide an updated recommended priority list to the board.
