Full Notification

Due to an overwhelming number of visitors to the Center Street corridor in past years, South Center Street in the Town of Ashland will be closed to vehicular traffic from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Halloween night. This closure will be from Stebbins Street south to Francis Street. Both the Francis Street railroad crossing and Myrtle Street railroad crossing will be open to all traffic.

In past years, many of our homes on this street have seen over 600 children trick or treating. Coupled with a high volume of motor vehicle traffic and the ever-existing train traffic, a significant public safety hazard was presented. It is hoped that this road closure will greatly improve the safety of this corridor while we have so many young visitors going door to door.

The Historic District Neighborhood Watch is providing volunteers for this effort to serve as ambassadors to the area and to ensure the safety of all visitors. As has been in the past, the Ashland Police Department will also have a presence in this area as well as all other residential areas in town.

APD would also like to remind residents of the following tips for safe “trick or treating”:

• A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
• If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.
• Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.
• Because pedestrian injuries are the most common injuries to children on Halloween, remind Trick-or Treaters remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
• If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
• Never cut across yards or use alleys.
• Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors.
• Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision.
• Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.
• When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls.
• Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will.