New Members
The Town of Pepperell is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents, with a focus on community safety. We are pleased to announce the planned installation of a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) crosswalk system in front of the Lawrence Library at 15 Main Street. The installation is scheduled to take place in late spring or summer of this year and represents a significant step forward in the Town's ongoing commitment to pedestrian safety.
Improving Safety for Pedestrians of All Ages
Main Street is a well-traveled corridor through the heart of Pepperell, and the stretch in front of the Lawrence Library is a particularly active pedestrian zone. Library patrons, students, families, seniors, and residents crossing to and from nearby businesses and destinations regularly navigate this intersection. The current conditions present challenges for pedestrians attempting to cross, as drivers may not consistently yield at the uncontrolled crossing.
The RRFB system is a proven, federally recognized pedestrian safety technology. When a pedestrian activates the beacon, high-intensity amber LED lights flash in a rapid, irregular pattern specifically designed to capture drivers' attention and signal the need to yield. Studies conducted by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) have shown that RRFBs dramatically increase motorist yielding rates — in some cases from less than 20% to more than 95% — making them one of the most effective mid-block pedestrian crossing enhancements available.
The installation at 15 Main Street is expected to:
Greatly increase driver awareness of pedestrians entering or waiting to cross the roadway
Reduce the risk of pedestrian-vehicle conflicts, particularly during peak library hours, community events, and school-adjacent activity
Improve accessibility for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and children who may have difficulty judging vehicle speeds or distances
Reinforce a culture of pedestrian safety along the Main Street corridor
Grant Funding Secured by the Planning Department
The Pepperell Planning Department successfully secured a grant on behalf of the Town to cover the cost of materials for the RRFB installation, estimated at approximately $30,000. This funding reflects the Department's proactive efforts to pursue external resources that improve community infrastructure without placing an undue burden on local taxpayers.
"We are excited to bring this important safety improvement to one of the most visited locations in town," said Town Planner, Jason Cleghorn. "The Lawrence Library is a hub of activity for residents of all ages, and ensuring that people can safely cross Main Street to access it is a priority. We are grateful for the grant funding that made this project possible."
About Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs)
RRFBs are pedestrian-activated warning devices installed at marked crosswalks. Unlike traditional traffic signals, they do not control traffic flow but instead alert drivers to the presence of pedestrians crossing or about to cross. The FHWA has included RRFBs in its Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) as a recommended treatment for improving pedestrian safety at uncontrolled crossings on high-speed or multi-lane roadways.
Looking Ahead
The Town of Pepperell remains committed to evaluating and improving pedestrian infrastructure throughout the community. The RRFB installation at the Lawrence Library is part of an effort to make Pepperell's streets safer and more welcoming for everyone who lives, works, and visits here.
For more information about this project, please contact the Pepperell Planning Department or DPW at:
jcleghorn@town.pepperell.ma.us or at pbrinkman@town.pepperell.ma.us
