In the heart of Mount Pleasant, a community member stood before the Planning Commission, voicing urgent concerns about traffic safety in a bustling area frequented by teenage drivers and pedestrians. The evening air was filled with a sense of urgency as the speaker highlighted the dangers posed by fast-moving vehicles on a road that has become increasingly busy.

The resident urged the commission to reconsider the traffic flow assessment presented in their documentation. While acknowledging that the current infrastructure may accommodate the volume of cars, they emphasized the critical need to prioritize safety, especially for young drivers. “There’s a lot of traffic. They go incredibly fast through that area,” the speaker noted, reflecting on the alarming frequency of rear-end collisions occurring near their driveway.

With the prospect of more children in the vicinity, the speaker proposed several solutions to enhance safety. Suggestions included adding a turn lane, reducing speed limits, and exploring other options to mitigate risks. The speaker also pointed out the challenges faced by cyclists and pedestrians, who navigate a road that lacks adequate space for safe travel. Despite recent improvements, such as new crosswalks near the Central Michigan University parking lot, the community member expressed concern that students often overlook these safety measures.

As the meeting progressed, the commission was reminded of the delicate balance between accommodating traffic flow and ensuring the safety of all road users. The heartfelt plea from the community member underscored the pressing need for thoughtful planning that considers the well-being of residents, particularly the youth who traverse these roads daily. The discussions from this meeting may pave the way for future initiatives aimed at creating a safer environment for everyone in Mount Pleasant.