During a recent government meeting, the ongoing issue of traffic safety on Cardinal Drive was a focal point of discussion, sparked by a petition advocating for the installation of speed bumps. The petition, which has garnered 23 signatures, was presented by a resident who has been in communication with local officials for over three years regarding this persistent concern.
The resident emphasized the need for action, citing a significant volume of traffic—approximately 14,000 vehicles recorded over a week during the holiday season. Despite this, officials expressed caution about the potential implications of installing speed bumps. Concerns were raised about the possibility of creating a domino effect, where other streets would subsequently demand similar measures, leading to widespread changes in traffic management.
Historical context was provided, noting that requests for speed bumps have been made in the past for other streets, such as Pay Street, but have not been implemented. Officials referenced a previous traffic study that did not indicate excessive speeding on other streets, suggesting that the current situation on Cardinal Drive may not warrant immediate action.
The discussion also highlighted the challenges of managing traffic in residential areas, particularly with the influx of vehicles heading to nearby commercial establishments like Walmart. Officials acknowledged the potential safety risks for pedestrians, especially with increased foot traffic in the area, but remained hesitant to commit to speed bumps without further analysis.
Alternative solutions, such as rumble strips, were suggested, but officials expressed concern about the long-term effectiveness and community acceptance of such measures. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for further evaluation of traffic patterns and safety measures before making any definitive decisions regarding the installation of speed bumps on Cardinal Drive.