Andover officials are weighing how to protect people gathering behind Old Town Hall while maintaining access for vehicles serving nearby businesses.
Town Manager Andrew Flanagan and Public Works Director Carlos Jaquez discussed safety options with the Select Board on Monday, Oct. 26, the Eagle-Tribune reported. The meeting agenda listed the item as “Pedestrian Safety Behind Old Town Hall.”
Bollards—posts used to separate vehicle traffic from pedestrian areas—have been under discussion for months. Earlier meeting records show board members repeatedly seeking updates on protection for the space, which hosts seating and community activities.
At the June 29 meeting, Select Board member Alex Vispoli asked Flanagan about installing safety bollards behind the building. Flanagan said he had contacted the public works director, according to the minutes.
Vispoli raised the issue again Aug. 10, citing safety concerns as the Chamber of Commerce prepared to hold outdoor movies there.
By Aug. 24, Flanagan and Vispoli had visited the site. Select Board Chair Ellen Townson asked about the bollards, and Flanagan indicated a resolution was expected soon, according to the meeting minutes.
The Oct. 26 agenda called for discussion but did not specify a proposed layout, project cost or installation schedule.
Separately, Andover received a $157,900 grant for its townwide traffic-calming safety project. The June 1 Select Board minutes describe funding for evaluating infrastructure before developing a permanent plan. Those records do not identify the grant as a funding source for the Old Town Hall work.
