Efforts to create safer options for walkers and bicyclists are gaining traction in Boothbay Harbor. Feb. 9, the selectboard heard updates from the Active Transportation Collaborative (ATC), a new, community-led initiative. ATC spoke about work related to signage and road safety.  

“There are two principle projects that we want to try to achieve to gain visibility for active support in the community,” said ATC representative Roger Matthews, who owns Pedego Electric Bikes in Boothbay Harbor. 

Matthews said the ATC is scheduling a meeting with Maine Department of Transportation's (MaineDOT) active transportation planner to scope out priority work: the Oak Street sidewalk completion from Hannaford to First National Bank and the Highway 96 shoulder. 

In addition, Matthews said MaineDOT has ordered “share the road” signage for several locations around town, including by the school, West Street and Perkins Road, and Atlantic Avenue at Lobster Cove Road. He also said the state will provide a stencil so the town can paint signage on its roads, and has also ordered 25 mph signs for Atlantic Avenue. Matthews also said the ATC is looking at updating the Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor Bicycle-Pedestrian Plan, created in 2012 by the two towns, MaineDOT and Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission.

Matthews said the ATC has been communicating across the groups to collaborate on their efforts when possible. He added, they are also keeping in mind the town’s new comprehensive plan and plan consultants, which he hoped would be connected.    

“This is some good, refreshing work that needed to have been done. I applaud your efforts,” said Selectman Ken Rayle.    

Later in the meeting, Selectman Michael Tomko said comprehensive plan efforts are moving forward. He said groups are being formed to explore topics including land use, the economy, public services, and natural resources.    

In other business, the board conditionally approved a wharves and weirs application for 12 Bear End Road. The project aims to build an access ramp to a 90-foot by 6-foot pier, with a seasonal ramp and a 12-foot by 30-foot float. The board approved the application pending a positive report from the harbor master.    

The board also approved an almost $16,500 purchase order for railing modifications on the footbridge. Town Manager Julia Latter said lighting upgrades to the footbridge required modifications to the railing, which was the most cost-effective method. Latter said most of the work will be completed this month, except for a controller, which has been ordered.    

The board accepted several personnel appointments, including Glenn Tilton as interim fire chief. According to Latter, Tilton has 42 years of experience as a firefighter, with over 14 years' experience as assistant fire chief. The board also approved Brad Tibbetts as an alternate on the port committee and James Mahoney as an alternate on the planning board.