Salem · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Salem public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2026 Road Program Funding
The Manager proposes $2.5 million for roads, but Councilor Stramaglia pushed for $3 million, warning the town has a history of deferring maintenance until things fail. A new pavement-condition report is due within weeks.
M&E; Bus Route Ridership
The new M&E; bus line logged 3,200 riders in its first month — the top complaint is that it doesn't run often enough.
Salem Rail Trail Phases 4 & 5 and South Broadway Culvert
The rail trail resurfacing won't start until 2027 because the culvert near Gidley is undersized — and the DOT insists any replacement bridge be strong enough to carry a 30-ton train, even though a train likely isn't coming.
All-Way Stop at Hampstead/Shannon/Town Farm/Liberty
After eight correctable crashes last year and 12,000 vehicles a day, the town recommends all-way stops at this intersection — with expected backups near Route 97 at peak times.
Route 111/Ermer Road Intersection Safety
The town is building a roundabout at a dangerous intersection where fatalities have occurred, funded 90% by a state grant. Construction is about a year and a half ahead of schedule.
MeVa Transit Route to Tuscan Village
A one-year, Massachusetts-grant-funded bus route connecting Salem to Methuen, the Lawrence commuter rail, and Tuscan Village starts April 6 — free for riders and costing Salem taxpayers nothing in year one. Councilors want ridership data before deciding whether to continue it.