Residents of downtown Mount Vernon are raising urgent concerns about escalating traffic dangers, particularly related to speeding and distracted driving. During a recent government meeting, a local resident highlighted alarming incidents, including near-misses in crosswalks and the presence of high-speed electric and gas-operated skateboards on sidewalks.

The speaker, who lives at the intersection of Myrtle and First, described a troubling environment where vehicles frequently exceed speed limits, with some reportedly reaching 40 to 50 miles per hour. The resident recounted personal experiences of nearly being struck multiple times while crossing streets, emphasizing the precariousness of navigating the area.

In addition to speeding vehicles, the resident pointed out the disruptive noise from modified exhaust systems, which have become a nuisance, particularly late at night. The sound of revving engines has been described as comparable to gunfire, disturbing the peace in residential areas.

Concerns were also raised about illegally modified vehicles, including a notably large BMW parked on Myrtle Street without a license. The resident expressed frustration over the apparent lack of enforcement regarding these issues and called for a safety meeting to address the growing dangers in the community.

The meeting underscored the need for local authorities to take action to enhance safety measures and regulate traffic behavior in downtown Mount Vernon, as residents seek a more secure environment for pedestrians and drivers alike.