Peabody City Council Candidate Aims To Tackle City Traffic, Pedestrian Troubles

PEABODY, MA — A Peabody City Council candidate is looking to push the city's traffic and pedestrian troubles to the forefront in proposing the creation of a resident-led Traffic & Safe Streets Commission.

Ward 2 City Council candidate Wendy Lattof said the commission's goal would be to address congestion, make neighborhoods more walkable and improve walking safety.

"From Lynnfield Street to Lowell Street, it's no secret that Peabody has a traffic problem," Latoff said. "I see this problem as an opportunity to work together as a community to make neighborhoods more walkable and safer for pedestrians. We need to modernize roadways and sidewalks, address traffic congestion, and cut pollution.

"Other Massachusetts communities already have commissions dedicated to transportation and safe streets. It's time for Peabody to catch up."

She said safe streets and walkable neighborhoods have been a top concern for families and seniors as she's talked with Ward 2 residents during her campaign.

"These conversations remind me every day that leadership isn't about talking at people — it's about listening, learning, and then working together on solutions."

Latoff said the Peabody Traffic & Safe Streets Commission would consist of seven members: four residents, including a resident chair, and three representatives from the Department of Public Services, the Peabody Police Department, and the Office of Community Development. Members would be appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council, ensuring both community representation and accountability.

The Commission would be charged with developing solutions to reduce traffic congestion, improve walkability, and enhance pedestrian safety. Its responsibilities would include identifying safety upgrades, exploring state and federal funding opportunities, advocating for more public transportation options, and making recommendations to improve public parking, designated streetscapes, and the overall maintenance of streets and sidewalks.

"I commend the great work of residents, elected leaders, and public safety officials who have worked hard to improve school bus traffic enforcement across the city as well as road safety on Route 114," Lattof said. "Let’s build on that momentum."