During the San Leandro City Council meeting on February 3, 2025, residents voiced urgent concerns regarding traffic safety and infrastructure issues at the intersection of Lewis and McArthur. The discussions highlighted a series of accidents and hazardous conditions that have persisted for years, prompting calls for immediate action from city officials.
Matthew Hissom, a local resident, presented a detailed collision report documenting over 25 accidents at the intersection, exacerbated by recent changes to traffic patterns. He emphasized the need for raised crosswalks and clearer signage to slow down vehicles, particularly as the area has become a dangerous thoroughfare for drivers seeking to access nearby restaurants and the freeway. Hissom recounted a recent incident where a dump truck damaged a fire hydrant, wasting thousands of gallons of water and further illustrating the risks posed by current traffic conditions.
Another resident, Matthew Law, echoed these sentiments, describing how the installation of delineator strips intended to improve safety has instead shifted the danger to the Lewis and McArthur intersection. Law recounted personal experiences of near-misses with speeding vehicles, including incidents involving his young child. He criticized the lack of meaningful progress on traffic solutions since a feasibility study for a roundabout was conducted in 2015, urging the council to prioritize the implementation of effective safety measures.
The residents' testimonies underscored a growing frustration with the city's response to longstanding safety issues. With a history of accidents and insufficient infrastructure improvements, community members are calling for immediate action to address the dangers at this critical intersection. The council's acknowledgment of these concerns and their commitment to exploring viable solutions will be crucial in ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike. As discussions continue, the community remains hopeful for timely interventions that can prevent further accidents and enhance overall traffic safety.