During a recent government meeting, community safety and traffic concerns took center stage as residents voiced their frustrations over pedestrian safety in Ridgewood. One resident, Susan, shared a harrowing experience of nearly witnessing a pedestrian accident on Franklin Avenue, highlighting the urgent need for improved traffic management and education for both drivers and pedestrians.

Susan emphasized that the issue extends beyond just one intersection, calling for a comprehensive approach to enhance safety across the area. She noted that while some drivers are considerate, others exhibit reckless behavior, such as ignoring crosswalks and rushing through turning lanes, which poses a significant risk to pedestrians. Her plea for action resonated with many attendees, who echoed the sentiment that more needs to be done to protect those crossing the streets.

In response to the public comments, the Mayor acknowledged the concerns raised and committed to addressing them. He stated that he would forward the traffic issues to Sergeant Torino, the head of the traffic division, for further evaluation and recommendations. Additionally, the Mayor clarified that discussions regarding electronic shredding would be revisited in the next budget cycle, ensuring that community concerns are taken into account in future planning.

The meeting underscored the community's desire for safer streets and the importance of proactive measures to prevent accidents, reflecting a growing awareness of pedestrian safety in urban planning discussions.