To the editor:

I appreciate Mr. Bucci’s arguments against the proposed stop signs in his neighborhood. He reminds us that there are rules of the road people are assumed to know. You need two or three accidents within a 12-month period to warrant action. Federal guidelines exist that provide guidance as to where and when stop signs should be installed. Signs are proliferating in town that change its character, environment and our community.

Earlier this year three stop signs magically appeared on the corner of Hawthorne Ave. and Melrose Road. No notice was provided to the residents. 

In February I wrote to Mr. Kustell, contacted the Chief of Police and later, the town solicitor. I stated that three stop signs on this corner are excessive and inquired whether a lesser step, like posting the speed limit, could be taken. I am aware that one unreported accident occurred here in April 2023, in which, thankfully, no one was hurt. The cause of the accident was not determined. 

In the twenty-eight years of residing on this corner, we are aware of no other mishap having occurred. Certainly, the few plantings on our lawn do not impede an otherwise clear view in both directions. This is a tee corner; Hawthorne ends at Melrose. How can a driver not look before turning? If the driver was texting or changing his or her music selection, no stop sign would have helped. The same can be said for the stop sign at the end of Melrose and at the end of other side streets ending at Mathewson Road. There’s a river there. Are the signs really necessary?

I was told I could file a motion, garner neighborhood support and start a case before the town council. The council apparently has the ability to pass ordinances without resident input. That is not how governance should work. Perhaps the notice Mr. Bucci and his neighbors received resulted from my queries.

In the meantime, I watch drivers react to the signs. Some people stop, most roll through, as there are no other cars in sight. Many drivers ignore the signs altogether. Unnecessary signage reenforces ignoring them, a dangerous reaction for the town to foster.

Let’s follow and enforce the commonsense rules and laws we already have rather than changing the nature of our neighborhoods and town with unheeded, unneeded signs.

Susan and Steven Hirsch 

Barrington