During a recent government meeting, community safety concerns dominated discussions, particularly regarding traffic speed and pedestrian safety on Coldwater Canyon. Residents expressed alarm over the high speeds of vehicles, with some drivers reportedly passing others in the median, creating hazardous conditions.
One resident highlighted that the proposed addition of crosswalks may not adequately address these primary concerns. While acknowledging the potential for crosswalks to enhance community interaction, they pointed out that the distance between crosswalks could compel pedestrians to cross streets unsafely, especially when walking dogs. The resident also raised doubts about the reliability of a petition supporting the crosswalks, noting that a significant portion of the signatories had since expressed reservations.
Concerns were also raised about the safety of proposed traffic islands, which could obscure visibility for drivers and hinder emergency response access. The resident argued that such islands are typically suited for wider streets and questioned their necessity on Coldwater Canyon, which is narrower.
The discussion further delved into the effectiveness of flashing yellow lights at crosswalks, with skepticism expressed about their ability to slow down speeding vehicles. The resident shared a personal experience where drivers ignored flashing lights, raising doubts about their efficacy in promoting pedestrian safety.
In response to these concerns, council members suggested exploring alternative solutions, including the installation of a signalized intersection at Lyndacrest, which could help regulate traffic flow more effectively. Another proposal included a single crosswalk at Loma Linda, equipped with a solid red stoplight to enhance pedestrian safety.
Council member Meersch echoed the sentiment that current measures, such as stop signs, may not sufficiently deter speeding. They advocated for a comprehensive approach to traffic management, emphasizing the need for a combination of stoplights and signs to improve safety for pedestrians.
The meeting concluded with a consensus to further study these proposals and return with recommendations, aiming to address the community's pressing safety concerns while fostering a safer environment for pedestrians.