In a recent city council meeting, residents of Cambridge voiced their concerns regarding traffic safety and urban development, highlighting the urgent need for policy changes to improve conditions in their neighborhoods.

Ariana Olsen, a local resident, expressed her support for a policy order aimed at auditing intersection safety following a tragic fatal crash at the intersection of DeWolf and Mount Auburn Streets. She emphasized the necessity for the city to enhance safety measures for cyclists and pedestrians, urging council members to vote in favor of the proposed plan.

The meeting also featured multiple testimonies from residents of Appleton Street, who reported a significant increase in traffic volume due to recent changes in city traffic flow. Vanessa Roger highlighted that Appleton Street has seen an influx of 700 additional cars daily, leading to dangerous conditions for residents. Many speakers called for the implementation of a no left turn restriction from Bridal Street to Appleton Street to alleviate the traffic burden and enhance safety.

Matthias Remillard, another speaker, echoed these sentiments, advocating for the city to adopt a proactive approach to traffic management, particularly in light of the Vision Zero initiative aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities. He urged the council to implement intersection audits as a standard practice following serious accidents.

The testimonies underscored a growing frustration among residents regarding the city’s response to traffic issues. Several speakers, including long-time residents, called for immediate action rather than prolonged evaluations, citing personal experiences of near-misses and hazardous conditions on their streets.

In addition to traffic concerns, the meeting touched on urban development issues, with residents expressing apprehension about proposed high-rise buildings near the Central Square Library. Concerns were raised about the potential disruption to the community and the adequacy of low-income housing provisions in the area.

As the meeting concluded, the council was urged to prioritize the safety of vulnerable road users and to take decisive action on traffic management and urban planning to address the pressing needs of the community.