Concerns over child safety and street markings dominated the Birmingham City Council meeting on April 15, 2025, as council members pushed for urgent action on traffic issues in the community.

Council member raised alarms about the need for speed cushions on 20 Ninth Street, North, near the Collegeville community center. With children frequently crossing the road, the council member emphasized the urgency of installing these safety measures to prevent potential accidents. "I would hate for a kid to actually experience that and then we react," they stated, highlighting the critical need for proactive safety measures.

In a related discussion, the council addressed the ongoing delays in street markings following recent paving projects. A council member expressed frustration over the lack of traffic bars, crosswalks, and center lines, which have left intersections dangerously unclear, especially at night. "People will stop at a stop sign in the middle of the intersection," they noted, calling for more accountability from the contractors responsible for the markings.

The mayor responded, acknowledging the delays and confirming that the contractor, Don Construction, is behind schedule due to issues with a subcontractor. He assured the council that efforts are being made to expedite the process and hold the subcontractor accountable. "There is more intentional tone from us collectively, holding the subcontractor accountable," he said.

The meeting also included a positive note, with a council member thanking the mayor and his team for engaging directly with residents in Rugby to better understand their frustrations. This outreach was seen as a valuable step in addressing community concerns.

As the council continues to push for improvements in traffic safety and street maintenance, the urgency of these discussions underscores the city's commitment to protecting its residents, particularly its children. The council plans to follow up on these issues to ensure timely resolutions.