By Alex Malm
During the Sept. 12 Town Council meeting, one of the agenda items was in regards to the intersection of Route 28 and Stonehenge Road and what should be put there to help with traffic safety.
Town Manager, Mike Malaguti, said they recently had a meeting hosted by New Hampshire Department of Transportation to go over the plans for the traffic at the intersection.
“There was a pretty good turnout,” said Malaguti.
Malaguti stated NHDOT favors a roundabout because it has fewer sight impacts for roundabouts. Based on the presentation he said they didn’t hear anything to make them object to it.
“DOT does traffic improvement, they do roadway improvements,” said Malaguti who said they are experienced with traffic related issues.
Town Council Chairman, John Farrell, said he heard from abutters who were against the traffic light.
“I can understand why,” said Farrell.
Farrell asked John Trottier, the Engineer for the Town, what he thought the best option was.
“As the engineer for the town, what’s your opinion,” said Farrell.
Trottier said it made sense to have a roundabout.
“I think the roundabout fulfills the purpose and the need for traffic safety,” said Trottier.
Trottier explained that right now the road is a 45 miles per hour speed zone and they would be reducing speeds with the new roundabouts.
“The speed limit will be reduced significantly,” said Trottier.
Trottier stated they also think there would be less conflicts in the traffic circle versus at a traffic light.
Town Councilor, Deb Paul, said she was against roundabouts.
“I am adamantly against the roundabout,” said Paul.
Paul explained that she lives near the intersection and grew up with roundabouts and doesn’t think it’s a good solution.
She also thought they need specialized equipment for plowing.
“I don’t think there’s enough space there,” said Paul.
Paul stated she felt it would make more sense to have a timed light there instead.
“I feel that a light would be better,” said Paul.
Fellow councilor, Chad Franz, said he used to live in Nashua near traffic lights and understands some of the concerns neighbors have.
“I can emphasize with the residents that are close,” said Franz.
It was pointed out that the state would be in charge of any repairs to it.
“I don’t like rotaries, but I’m not a traffic expert,” said Farrell.
He said it makes sense to go with it based on what the abutters want and what the experts are saying.
The next Londonderry Town Council meeting is slated for Sept. 26 at 7 p.m.