Will guardrails make New Meadow Road safer for motorists? That is one of the questions officials will consider during an assessment of that road on Wednesday, May 2. 

Barrington Town Manager Jim Cunha said officials from the Rhode Island Department of Transportation agreed to check New Meadow Road following a fatal car accident last month. A Barrington man, 24-year-old Maximillian Bean, died after his car struck a utility pole and careened into the Barrington River. The accident occurred on the section of New Meadow Road near Temple Habonim.

Mr. Cunha said town and state officials conducted a similar safety assessment on Sowams Road after there was an accident on that road a few years ago. The town manager said officials considered installing guardrails on Sowams, but eventually decided against the measure.

"Sometimes you can create an additional hazard with the guardrail," said Mr. Cunha. "Guardrails aren't always the answer."

Mr. Cunha said RI DOT officials will conduct the roadway assessment along with the chief of police, the director of the department of public works, and the manager himself.

Nayatt Road repaving

While officials assess the safety level of New Meadow Road, Mr. Cunha is keeping a close eye on the upcoming improvements planned for Nayatt Road.

The state is scheduled to repave Nayatt Road this summer, and the new, smoother surface could result in faster vehicle traffic.

"When you make improvements there are unintended consequences," said Mr. Cunha. "What's going to happen with the speed on Nayatt Road? The tendency is going to be to drive faster. How do you control the speed?"

Mr. Cunha referenced increased police monitoring and more signs along Nayatt Road. 

"You can't prevent it all," he added.

Mr. Cunha said the Nayatt Road work is scheduled to start July 1. He said state and town officials will work to notify residents and other motorists about the work schedule and potential traffic delays.