Watertown Public Safety 0& Welfare Committee Meeting | August 5, 2026

The City of Watertown Public Safety & Welfare Committee met on August 5, 2026, to discuss several community and traffic-related issues. Key procurement-related discussions included the potential conversion of South 8th Street from a one-way to a two-way street. The committee reviewed engineering studies and public comments, with many residents opposing the change due to safety and traffic concerns. The committee considered options for phased street conversions and ultimately voted to schedule the 8th Street conversion between Market and Western Avenue for completion by May 31, 2027, with some members opposing the motion. Additionally, the committee approved stipulations for special events involving open container alcohol permits, ensuring compliance with safety protocols. They also reviewed traffic studies for Oakwood Lane and discussed the feasibility of speed limit reductions and stop sign installations, voting to proceed with a stop sign study. Fireworks complaint reports were reviewed, with no immediate action taken. Overall, the meeting focused on traffic management, public safety, and event regulation, with several motions passed related to street conversions and event permitting.