Speaking of mundane municipal matters with big impact, it is long past time for a safe sidewalk along Federal Road to be at the top of the town’s priority list. This is one of the few critical school zones without an adequate sidewalk.

The stretch of roadway between Upland Way and Middle Highway is a connector that links the high school, the town’s public safety complex, the most active multipurpose field in town, the middle school, an elementary school, the community farm school, a conservation area, and a beautiful walking trail — all public facilities — not to mention the most active and vibrant private school in town.

Considering all that exists in that one epicenter of town, it is difficult to fathom why a sidewalk still does not exist.

To their credit, the Barrington Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee has recommended a sidewalk for this part of town, which at least puts it on the town’s radar for future improvements. We suggest it should be moved to the top. While so many of the target areas would enhance or improve public infrastructure, few exist in a state of constant risk like this stretch of Federal Road. It is not safe for children commuting to the high school, the middle school, or anywhere in between.