Residents demand urgent action on traffic safety crisis

In a recent government meeting, Napa officials emphasized a renewed commitment to traffic safety, introducing Fareed Javandahl, a licensed civil and traffic engineer, to lead efforts in addressing community concerns and enhancing local infrastructure. Javandahl expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to Napa's transportation policies, highlighting the importance of safe and equitable mobility options.

Public comments during the meeting revealed significant community frustration regarding ongoing traffic issues, particularly in neighborhoods like Kilburn and Bridal. Residents voiced concerns about speeding, inadequate responses from city officials, and the need for immediate traffic calming measures. Maureen Tripp, co-founder of Slow Down Napa, urged the city to implement temporary traffic calming solutions and to allocate budgeted funds towards actionable plans rather than just reviews.

Cheryl Meyer Durkin and Russell Jones echoed these sentiments, detailing their struggles with persistent speeding in their neighborhoods and a perceived lack of urgency from city authorities. They called for immediate action to prevent potential accidents, especially near schools. Lisa Massaro added that recent city projects inadvertently created hazards, suggesting that the city reassess its planning strategies to enhance safety.

The meeting underscored a critical need for improved communication between residents and city officials, as many expressed feeling overlooked despite their repeated outreach. The discussions highlighted a collective demand for swift action to ensure community safety and effective traffic management in Napa.