Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments

The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments' Vision Zero Action Plan outlines a comprehensive strategy to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries within its 19 municipalities by 2060. This plan employs a data-driven approach, leveraging safety analysis and public engagement to inform its strategic pillars. These pillars encompass policy recommendations, implementation of Federal Highway Administration's Proven Safety Countermeasures, and targeted strategies for improving safety at intersections, reducing roadway departures, addressing driver behavior, and protecting vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and bicyclists. The intended outcome is a safer, more connected region, supported by emergency response enhancements and continuous progress measurement against targets through 2030.

The board meeting agenda and documentation primarily focused on the 2025-2028 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Key discussions involved a new project regarding the replacement of 27 existing Variable Message Signs along interstates and state routes, including five within the MPO region, with a total project cost of $19.9 million. Supporting documentation included resolutions and memoranda for these TIP amendments, confirming compliance with air quality standards and public review procedures.

The meeting served as the project kickoff for the ADA Title II Municipal Assistance Program. Key topics included the legal requirements for ADA compliance under Title II and PROWAG, the role of municipalities in maintaining compliance, and the scope of work for the project team, which involves GIS mapping and field data collection of public rights-of-way infrastructure, such as curb ramps, traffic signals, and sidewalks. Participants discussed the project approach, the importance of designating an ADA coordinator, establishing grievance procedures, and the upcoming coordination and training steps for the 18-month project timeline.

The meeting focused on the review of water sampling results for the Mad River watershed. Consultants presented data from recent bacteria sampling conducted in March and early April, highlighting observations regarding Tannery Brook. The committee discussed future sampling schedules for stream locations and lake outlets and reviewed state TMDL criteria for comparative purposes. Additionally, the committee addressed questions concerning the potential impact of road salt application practices on local water quality.

The meeting involved the approval of two fiscal year 2025 to 2028 transportation improvement program amendments, one related to overhead sign inspections and another concerning traffic signal improvements. Staffing updates were provided, including the introduction of several new interns and a senior community planner. Discussion took place regarding the agency's physical relocation and technology setup. Additionally, the board approved a regional service grant resolution, and members were updated on the status of hazard mitigation plan funding, confirming that project contributions from member towns would remain as originally committed.