Residents of the Waterview neighborhood in Portsmouth voiced their growing frustration over traffic issues and safety concerns during a recent city council meeting. The community has experienced a significant increase in traffic since the construction of a vehicular causeway in the 1960s, which replaced a pedestrian bridge. This change was intended to alleviate congestion on High Street but has instead led to a surge in vehicles, including large trucks, cutting through residential streets.

Local resident Mr. Russo highlighted the dangers posed by speeding drivers, noting that the neighborhood's wide streets encourage violations of the 25 mph speed limit. He reported numerous accidents over the past decade, including one fatality, and expressed concern for the safety of residents who enjoy outdoor activities. Despite previous complaints and the installation of stop signs in 1995, the situation has not improved, with many drivers ignoring traffic controls.

In response to these ongoing issues, the city had proposed traffic calming measures, which were expected to be implemented by March 2024. However, delays have occurred, leading to frustration among residents who feel their concerns are being overlooked. Mr. Russo emphasized the urgent need for action to prevent further accidents and maintain the neighborhood's quality of life.

Councilman Hugo requested an update from the city manager regarding the status of the traffic calming measures, indicating that the matter had not been adequately addressed. The city manager committed to following up with the city engineer to provide clarity on the situation.

In addition to traffic concerns, other residents raised issues related to crime and safety in downtown Portsmouth. Mr. Goodwin discussed recent violent incidents and proposed designating the Children's Museum as an educational facility to establish a buffer zone aimed at reducing crime. He urged the council to take decisive action to restore safety and order in the community.

The meeting underscored the residents' call for immediate attention to their concerns, with the hope that city officials will prioritize traffic safety and crime prevention measures to enhance the quality of life in Portsmouth neighborhoods.