Hingham considers roundabout at crash-prone intersection
HINGHAM - Hingham officials are considering a roundabout to address long-standing safety concerns at the intersection of Main, Middle, and Short Streets. Town Engineer JR Frey said the plan comes after a road safety audit identified the area as one of the most dangerous in town.
“There was a fatality at this intersection,” Frey said. “That road safety audit identified several different possibilities for improving this intersection and making it a safer intersection for all road users.”
Police data shows 25 crashes at the intersection since 2021. Sgt. Jeff Kilroy said the problem is especially severe during school hours, noting the intersection is a main route for Hingham High School drivers.
“It is a significant area of concern for us,” Kilroy said. “The commuting hours are considerably more worrisome for us.”
Frey explained that the roundabout outperformed other options like signalization in reducing delays and crashes. Unlike a traffic signal, the roundabout could be built entirely within town-controlled property, avoiding the need for state legislation or property takings.
“The roundabout performed best of all of the alternatives,” Frey said. “All of this can be accomplished basically within the space that is under your control.”
Board members agreed that improvements are overdue. Chair William Ramsey said he often avoids the intersection entirely because of safety concerns.
Select Board member Elizabeth Klein supported seeking a third-party review of the plan before moving forward. “There’s no denying that this is a dangerous intersection and something needs to be done,” she said.
Frey said more detailed plans will be presented later this month, with opportunities for additional public input. If approved, the town will seek a state Complete Streets construction grant to fund the project.