Residents urge Sunnyside council to address dangerous traffic concerns on Fifth Avenue

Concerns over traffic safety took center stage at the Sunnyside City Council meeting on April 14, 2025, as residents voiced urgent calls for action following a serious accident earlier this year. The incident, which involved a vehicle flipping over while attempting to cross Fifth Avenue, has sparked renewed discussions about the need for improved traffic measures in the area.

Resident Andy Moore presented harrowing details of the January accident, emphasizing the dangers posed by large trucks parked near Bridal. "We are lucky that no one was hurt," Moore stated, highlighting the precarious situation for pedestrians trying to navigate the busy street. She urged the council to consider practical solutions, such as redesigning parking spaces to accommodate smaller vehicles, which could enhance visibility for those crossing the road.

Council members acknowledged the ongoing concerns about traffic safety, with one member recalling their own experiences living in the area for 30 years. "It is a difficult corner," they noted, suggesting that the city should gather crash statistics to better understand the issue. The need for a comprehensive traffic study was also mentioned, although the costs associated with such measures remain a concern.

Another resident, Mike Kennard, echoed these sentiments, describing reckless driving behaviors that endanger children in the neighborhood. "It's just crazy," he said, expressing fear for the safety of young children playing nearby. Kennard called for immediate action to slow down traffic, warning that without intervention, a tragic accident could be imminent.

As discussions continue, the city council faces mounting pressure to address these critical safety issues. The community's call for action reflects a growing urgency to ensure that Sunnyside remains a safe place for all residents, particularly its youngest members. The council's next steps will be closely watched as they consider potential solutions to enhance traffic safety in the area.