If you see Swampscott's Police out and about, you may notice something a little different.

SPD has introduced a new load-bearing duty belt which more evenly distributes weight around the torso. Officers routinely carry 20 or more pounds around on their duty belts each shift and in order to help combat long-term back problems, many agencies are changing to load bearing vests instead of belts.

Although all officers will wear the vest, women in particular benefit from the new fit, allowing them to properly carry all required equipment. Swampscott is dedicated to continuing to attract qualified candidates and hopes that this small change will go a long way to reflect its commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of all officers.

In an effort to reduce speeding and increase safety at two important intersections in Swampscott, the Department of Public Works and Community & Economic Development have worked together to install jersey barriers at Monument Ave. & Burrill St.; and Humphrey St. & Atlantic Ave.

With these improvements, drivers will be forced to evaluate traffic and pedestrian presence before resuming.

This is just one small step the Town is taking to continue to make crucial improvements to Swampscott's roadways to improve safety for vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists.

The Purple Beech tree on Swampscott Town Hall Lawn has earned its place in the 'Legacy of Trees' of Massachusetts!

This tree has provided important shade for visitors to Town Hall Lawn and helps contribute to the crucial role healthy tree canopy plays in the wellbeing of our community and the Earth as a whole.