Fitchburg Transportation and Transit Commission Regular Monthly Meeting – August 13, 2026

The Fitchburg Transportation and Transit Commission (TTC) held its regular monthly meeting on August 13, 2026, at 6:31 PM. All commissioners were present except Margaret Hutter and Alder Gerhardt (excused). No members of the public attended. The commission discussed a traffic impact analysis ordinance, a quick-build pedestrian/bicycle safety project on Schumann Drive, a mid-year budget update from Metro Transit, and various staff reports on ongoing transportation projects.

Consent Calendar

• The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously. Follow-up on a public presentation about the Agora and farmer's market was discussed; staff indicated that suggestions would be considered for the Safety Action Plan or as quality-of-life improvements. Commissioner noted a gap in the bicycle/pedestrian network near the Agora, and another commissioner mentioned a draft Greenway system resolution being reviewed.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comments were made.

Discussion Items

• Staff Reports: Staff reported on the Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (proposals due Aug 31, 2026; multiple questions from firms). 2026 street resurfacing progress: Research Park asphalt complete, awaiting paint; Bellmar and Tower Hill streets after water main work; Fish Hatchery Road path reconstruction delayed (concrete and asphalt crews coordination); research park speed limit pilot showed 85th percentile speed dropped from 27 to 24 mph after reducing limit to 20 mph; staff attended ITE conference and learned from other cities' safety action plans.
• Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) Ordinance: A proposed ordinance to codify requirements for traffic impact analyses from new developments was presented. The ordinance clarifies when a TIA is needed and makes the requirement enforceable, though detailed guidelines are not being adopted. Commissioners discussed the relationship between the ordinance and guidelines, the process for updating guidelines (staff decision), and potential conflicts between motor vehicle and bicycle/pedestrian level of service. Several commissioners raised concerns about the weighting of bicycle/pedestrian LOS versus motor vehicle LOS, and the language around bike lane design and transit trip credits. After discussion, the commission voted unanimously to recommend adoption of the ordinance.
• Schumann Drive Quick-Build Project: Staff presented a plan to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety at the intersection of Schumann Drive, Parkhill Circle, and two multi-use paths. The project includes painting a 10-foot on-street multi-use path, moving stop signs, and installing flex posts (estimated cost $1,500). Commissioners generally supported the quick-build approach but raised concerns about bike lane configuration, potential conflicts with right-turning vehicles, and signage clarity. One commissioner proposed an alternative advisory lane design, but staff noted that posts have already been ordered and the project is scheduled for next week. The commission expressed support for the project as a stopgap until longer-term improvements (curb-separated path or sidewalks) are funded.
• Metro Transit Budget Update: Staff presented information from Metro Transit’s mid-year budget update, which projected a $4.2 million deficit in 2026. Fitchburg's 2025 audited service costs exceeded payments by 20.73% ($365,597). Under the current contract, Fitchburg’s 2027 contribution increases by only 3% due to a cap, but Metro is expected to seek higher increases. Commissioners discussed implications for expanding bus routes 65 and 75 to all-day service, noting that the wheel tax revenue previously earmarked for expansion may now be needed to cover increased costs. Some commissioners expressed concern about the lack of transit governance and the need for regional transit authority. No formal action was taken.

Key Outcomes

• Approved: TIA ordinance recommended to Common Council (unanimous vote).
• Supported: Schumann Drive quick-build project as presented (commission consensus, no formal vote needed).
• Noted: Metro Transit budget shortfall and potential impact on future service expansion plans.
• Next Steps: Staff to proceed with Schumann Drive installation; TIA ordinance to be considered by Council; staff to continue monitoring Metro Transit contract negotiations. Next meeting tentatively scheduled for September 10, 2026, but may be canceled due to lack of agenda items.