Residents of High Boulevard expressed concerns regarding traffic safety during a recent government meeting, particularly focusing on the placement of stop signs and crosswalks in their neighborhood. A long-time resident highlighted issues with speeding vehicles and the inconvenience caused by a stop sign located directly in front of their home, which leads to difficulties exiting their driveway and increased noise from idling cars. They questioned the rationale behind the stop sign's placement, noting that other crosswalks in the area lack similar signage.
Another resident, Ellie Dillon, echoed these sentiments, sharing her observations of traffic behavior at stop signs and the prevalence of rolling stops, particularly by trucks on nearby Malta Avenue. Dillon proposed a community campaign to encourage adherence to traffic laws, emphasizing the need for better traffic control measures to enhance safety for pedestrians, especially children.
Natasha Pernicka, a local parent, shared her children's positive experiences with the stop signs, noting that they felt safer crossing the street. However, she raised questions about whether stop signs are the most effective solution for pedestrian safety, suggesting the need for expert analysis on the matter.
The meeting also included a response from a board member who pointed out that the installation of stop signs can sometimes lead to increased speeds on adjacent roads as drivers attempt to make up for lost time. They noted that no engineering study had been conducted prior to the stop sign's installation, which is typically recommended to assess the necessity of such measures.
The discussion concluded with a recognition of the ongoing six-month trial period for the stop signs, during which community feedback will be collected to evaluate their effectiveness in improving pedestrian safety. The board encouraged residents to continue sharing their experiences and suggestions as the trial progresses.