Phoenix residents petition to remove dangerous rush hour reverse lanes on Downtown streets

In a lively session at Phoenix City Hall, residents voiced their concerns over two pressing issues affecting the community: the controversial rush hour reverse lanes on Seventh Avenue and Seventh Street, and the management of city-owned golf courses.

The meeting began with a passionate citizen petition highlighting the dangers of the reverse lanes, which were implemented in the late 1970s to facilitate traffic flow into downtown Phoenix. However, as the city has evolved, these lanes have become known as the "7 suicide lanes," a term reflecting the confusion and hazards they pose to both drivers and pedestrians. With a growing population and increased business activity in the area, the petitioners argued that these lanes no longer meet safety standards and contribute to aggressive driving behaviors.

The petition, supported by over 4,000 signatures, called for the immediate removal of the reverse lanes and urged the city council to develop a public education campaign to inform drivers about the changes. Residents expressed frustration over the lanes' underutilization and the increased traffic incidents linked to their presence.

Following this discussion, another resident raised concerns about the city's golf courses, which consume a staggering one billion gallons of potable water annually. The speaker criticized the city for maintaining these facilities, arguing that they occupy a disproportionate amount of parkland while serving a small percentage of the population. He called for a review of the golf courses' operations and suggested forming an ad hoc committee to assess their impact on the community, particularly in light of water conservation efforts.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that these issues resonate deeply with Phoenix residents, reflecting broader concerns about safety, resource allocation, and community priorities. The city council now faces the challenge of addressing these petitions and considering the future of both the reverse lanes and the golf courses in a rapidly changing urban landscape.