During a recent government meeting, community concerns regarding pedestrian and road safety in White Rock were brought to the forefront through a citizen petition. The petition, presented by resident Mr. Skolnick, highlighted the need for improved safety measures at several key intersections, particularly for school children who often cross busy roads unaccompanied.

Skolnick emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing frequent disregard for pedestrian crossings by drivers and the challenges posed by poor visibility at intersections like Grand Canyon and Rover. He called for the installation of four-way stop signs at critical junctions and suggested cost-effective measures such as flashing lights to remind drivers of their obligations to yield to pedestrians.

The petition garnered significant community support, with Skolnick noting that feedback was collected through a local Facebook group, indicating a strong collective concern for pedestrian safety. He urged county officials to experience the problematic intersections firsthand to better understand the issues faced by residents.

In response, Public Works Director Juan Bridal provided updates on ongoing projects, including the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of Mirador Boulevard and New Mexico 4, which is contingent upon the completion of a nearby development. Bridal acknowledged the challenges in coordinating with developers and the need for timely action to enhance safety measures.

Council members engaged in discussions about the petition, with some expressing a desire for further investigation into the proposed safety improvements. A motion was made to acknowledge the petition and request that staff collaborate with the petitioners and relevant stakeholders to explore options for enhancing pedestrian safety. The council agreed to revisit the matter after the school year begins to ensure accurate assessments of pedestrian traffic.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to addressing safety concerns and the importance of proactive measures to protect vulnerable road users, particularly children.