During a recent government meeting, residents of Mill Road expressed urgent concerns regarding speeding and traffic safety in their neighborhood. The discussions highlighted a growing frustration among community members, who reported an increase in reckless driving, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Neil McMorrow, a resident since 2014, described the road as narrow with blind curves, noting that the volume of traffic has surged, particularly from patrons of nearby restaurants. He recounted numerous close calls involving pedestrians and vehicles, emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent potential fatalities. Other residents echoed his sentiments, sharing personal experiences of near-misses and accidents.
Danny Wu, another Mill Road resident, pointed out that the road has become a thoroughfare for drivers cutting through to Wilton and downtown New Canaan, exacerbating the speeding issue. He called for solutions to enhance safety for families and children who frequently walk and bike in the area.
The meeting also featured input from Deputy Chief Walsh, who shared data from recent traffic studies. He noted that while average speeds recorded were within limits, the perception of speed felt much higher due to the road's narrowness and the presence of pedestrians. Walsh acknowledged the community's concerns and indicated that police enforcement had been conducted, albeit with limited violations observed.
Residents proposed various solutions, including the installation of speed humps and improved signage, to slow down traffic. Some suggested that overgrown vegetation along the road contributes to visibility issues, calling for municipal intervention to address this problem.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from local officials to further investigate the situation, including potential collaborations with neighboring jurisdictions for traffic enforcement. Residents expressed hope that their concerns would lead to actionable changes that prioritize safety on Mill Road.