City council hears urgent plea to address traffic safety concerns

During a recent city council meeting in Puyallup, local residents raised significant concerns regarding traffic safety and infrastructure challenges in the downtown area. Aubrey Reichel, a resident and employee at Puyallup Mazda, highlighted the increasing number of vehicle accidents at the intersection of 7th Street and River Road, exacerbated by the prolonged closure of 4th Street. Reichel reported that accidents have become a monthly occurrence, with the most recent incident resulting in bodily harm.

Reichel emphasized the dangerous traffic conditions, particularly the confusion caused by the road's design, which features limited lanes and a shoulder that many drivers misuse. She proposed several solutions, including the addition of lane markings and signage to prohibit right turns on red, to improve safety for both drivers and pedestrians.

In response to Reichel's concerns, city officials assured her that the matter would be forwarded to the city manager and the traffic and public works departments for further investigation.

Additionally, Tyler Litzenberger, president of Vector Development Company, introduced himself to the council as the applicant for the Freeman Logistics Project. He expressed his willingness to address any questions regarding the project, which is set to take place on the east side of Freeman Road.

The discussions reflect ongoing efforts by Puyallup residents and developers to address traffic safety and urban development, highlighting the need for effective communication between the community and city officials.