Westwood residents voice safety concerns over traffic impact from new housing project

The City of Des Moines held a Plan and Zoning Meeting on December 19, 2024, to discuss various community concerns, particularly focusing on a proposed development in the Westwood neighborhood. The meeting featured public comments regarding the implications of increased traffic and safety risks for schoolchildren in the area.

One resident expressed significant concern about the safety of children walking to local schools, specifically Hanawalt Elementary, Merrill Middle School, and Roosevelt High School. The speaker highlighted that the Westwood neighborhood is not designated for school bus service, forcing children to walk along busy streets. A personal anecdote was shared about a tragic incident where their son was struck by a vehicle at the intersection of 56th and Grant while walking to school. This incident underscored the urgency of addressing pedestrian safety, especially during peak traffic times when school starts.

The resident also raised concerns about the steepness of local driveways and the potential hazards posed by winter weather. They noted that their own driveway is steep and has been a source of danger, with vehicles sliding into traffic due to icy conditions. The speaker emphasized that the proposed development would likely exacerbate these issues by increasing the number of vehicles in the area, further complicating the already hazardous conditions for children walking to school.

Following this testimony, the meeting facilitator invited others to voice their opinions on the project. The concerns raised reflect a broader apprehension about the impact of new developments on community safety and the well-being of residents, particularly children.

The meeting concluded with a call for further consideration of these safety issues as the city moves forward with planning decisions. The discussions highlighted the need for careful evaluation of traffic patterns and pedestrian safety in the context of new developments in Des Moines.