The citywide lowering of speed limits was among the many topics covered at the latest Ward 2 ResiStat meeting last week.

By Amy Swain

Ward 2 held its fall ResiStat meeting on Thursday of last week. Residents of the neighborhood gathered at the Argenziano School.

Brad Rawson, Director of Transportation and Infrastructure took to the microphone first to discuss some traffic and parking adjustments, one major project being Lincoln Park. “Parts of the park completed before the whole of the plan is complete will be available for use as they are finished,” Rawson reported. “However, fields with new grass must be given time to properly root, so we have to keep residents off these fields.” When a resident retorted that this is improbable, Mayor Curtatone stepped up to remind everyone that if any part of the project is disrupted the city will lose the warranty, and thus its investment in the project, so great lengths in preventing such occurrences can be expected.

Rawson also discussed changes to Summer Street. The bike lane will be moved to the odd, or uphill side of the street, while on-street parking will now be on the even side. “There are the same number of parking spaces on each side, but this will improve bicycle safety,” said Rawson.

Mayor Curtatone spoke about the new citywide speed limit that has been put into effect earlier this week. The entire city has a limit of 25 mph, while some areas have even been lowered to 20 mph. “We’re encouraging people to walk and bike more,” the mayor said, “So we have to make it safe for them.” Statistics were shared revealing that lowering speed from 30 mph to 20 mph increases chances of pedestrian survival when hit by a car from 50 to 90 percent.

Christine Andrews, Environmental Housing Programs Coordinator in the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development, wrapped up the meeting by presenting the benefits of transitioning to solar power, specifically through Solarize Mass. The company offers benefits to the city if enough conversions are made this year. Residents must schedule a site visit before November 23 and make the decision to switch by December 16. Sixty-one buildings have been converted so far this year. More information can be found at somervillema.gov/solarize.