Residents of West Covina are increasingly vocal about their concerns regarding the intersection of Citrus and Cameron, with many advocating for the installation of a traffic signal to enhance safety. During a recent city council meeting, several community members expressed their support for the signal, citing a significant rise in traffic and a troubling number of accidents at the intersection.
Robert Lorenz, a local resident, highlighted the growing traffic volume, noting that approximately 40,000 vehicles pass through the intersection daily, a number that has been steadily increasing since 2022. He emphasized the dangers posed to pedestrians, including schoolchildren, who frequently navigate the area. Lorenz's sentiments were echoed by other residents, including Audrey Miller, who shared emails from neighbors unable to attend the meeting but who also supported the signal for safety reasons.
Concerns about the intersection's safety were further underscored by Peter Davis, a long-time resident, who pointed out the lack of visibility for drivers turning onto Cameron from Citrus. He argued that without a traffic signal, the risk of accidents remains high, particularly given the current traffic patterns.
However, not all residents are in favor of the proposed traffic signal. Some voiced concerns about potential negative impacts on property values and parking availability. Stephen C, another resident, argued that traffic enforcement, rather than the installation of a signal, should be the focus of the council's efforts. He warned that without proper traffic calming measures, alternative routes could become congested, leading to further issues for local residents.
The discussions reflect a community divided on the best approach to address safety concerns at the intersection. As the city council considers the feedback from residents, the future of the proposed traffic signal remains uncertain, with many calling for a comprehensive traffic study to ensure that any changes made will effectively enhance safety for all users of the road.