With plenty of distractions for drivers on Route 6, Mattapoisett Selectmen are seeking options to make crosswalks more visible and safer for everyone.

Town Administrator Mike Gagne said he is concerned about crossings at Barstow Street and Pearl Street. On Tuesday, the Hyannis-based engineering firm Fay, Spofford, and Thorndike discussed possible improvements to the corners with Selectmen.

In addition to making the intersections handicap accessible, Douglas Prentiss, Senior Principal Engineer of Transportation for the firm, suggested using “rectangular rapid flashing beacons” activated by a button.

“It’s a warning device, not traffic control,” said Prentiss.

With alternating flashing lights, Prentiss said the devices are highly visible and 88 percent of drivers have been proven to notice them.

So far, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation has not approved the lights, despite federal acceptance of them in 2008, said Prentiss. And with the crosswalks on a state highway, the town must be granted a permit to make any improvements.

Selectman Jordan Collyer was none too happy about the possibility of red tape.

“I think it’s absolutely disgusting that we have to see if this is feasible or if we think we can get the state to approve this to enhance the safety of this citizen,” he said.

Chief Mary Lyons agreed with the concept of adding the lights to improve safety, but also noted that the lights are expensive. Prentiss said a pair of lights costs between $10,000 and $20,000, which does not include engineering costs.

Before any money is spent on making plans, however, the Selectmen decided to open a preliminary discussion with the District 5 DOT.