TOWN OF TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WKBW) — A proposal to redesign one of the Town of Tonawanda's busiest roadways has community members speaking up.
The change is called a “road diet” to reconfigure and reduce lanes along Colvin from Kenmore Avenue to Sheridan Drive. Town officials said the redesign aims to slow traffic and create a safer roadway for everyone who uses it.
A Town of Tonawanda resident previously reached out to us with concerns. You can watch our report below and read more here.
On Monday, residents on both sides shared their perspectives at a packed town board meeting.
WATCH: Below, we're sharing their voices on an issue that could impact daily commutes and neighborhood safety.
Dozens of residents with strong opinions and officials attended the meeting.
"We feel that what is proposed in front of you is consistent with the complete streets policy adopted in December 2017," said Town of Tonawanda Engineer Matt Sutton. "We are also starting to implement the FHWA safe system approach. This is trying to go beyond, this is trying to be a little more proactive rather than waiting for injuries or deaths."
"Along Colvin Boulevard, just between Sheridan and Tonawanda, Kenmore Avenue, there are 11 bus stops," said Michael, who opposes the change. "New York State traffic law says, Section 1126, that it is illegal. As that car is there like that, it is not legal to use a two-way TWA to pass any bus."
Another resident questioned the data behind the proposal.
"Typically, any change related to traffic and safety is supported by statistical data," said Joe. "What justification exists to support the reduction of travel lanes on a main thoroughfare like Colvin?"
However, some residents voiced strong support for the changes, citing safety benefits.
"I'm in strong support of the road diet on Colvin Boulevard, converting the four-lane road into two lanes with a center turn lane and with bicycle lanes in each direction," said Eric. "It's a proven safety design backed by extensive research. According to the Federal Highway Administration, road diets like this can reduce crashes by 19 to 47 percent."
Brittney, who drives the road daily, agreed.
"I drive up and down Colvin Boulevard every day," Brittney said. "I've lived here for six years. The traffic and the way that people drive is outrageous, and road diets are an evidence-based way to calm traffic, reduce speeds, reduce fatalities."
After hearing from numerous residents, the town board voted to table the topic for further discussion, with the possibility of forming a special committee for Woodcrest Boulevard, one of the intersections that would be affected.
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