Article 54 Monaghan Presentation¶

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Substitute Motion for

Warrant Article 54

Traffic visibility

Practical updates for safer streets

Annual Town Meeting 2026

Caitlin Monaghan, TMM Pct. 8

Caitlin.E.Monaghan@gmail.com

Section 5.3.12(A) promotes traffic visibility around

corners

• Applies to a triangle near the

intersection in R districts

• Forbids structures over 36”

except shade trees

20 ft

Inappropriate placement of certain types of fencing and

vegetation obscures the view of traffic

Photo credit: Reliable Fences, Adobe stock images

Low-opacity fences over 36” are also forbidden near

corners

Wrought iron on pavers, 48”

30% opaque above 36”

Cable railing, 42”

15% opaque above 36”

Ornamental aluminum, 53”

32% opaque above 36”

Safety depends on fence height

Arlington Children’s Center

Dog jumping three-foot barrier

Compliant—but not practical

Hypotenuse fence

20-foot setback

Section 5.3.12(B) protects visibility from driveways

without imposing absolute height limits

• Applies to the 60” closest

to the front lot line

• Forbids structures over

30”

• Includes an exception if

visibility is not hindered

Proposed changes

• Clarifies the placement of the sight triangle

• Allows fences over 36” within the sight triangle if they:

• Do not materially impede the vision of operators of motor

vehicles

• Are less than 35% opaque

Impact of amending Section 5.3.12(A)

• Reduce risk of children and dogs entering the street

• Legalize existing safe fences

• Encourage safer, more transparent fence designs

• Eliminate the need to choose between noncompliance,

variances, or reduced yard usability

• Increase bylaw’s perceived legitimacy by aligning it with its

stated purpose