Jersey City leaders push for traffic safety reforms on Monticello Avenue to protect children

Concerns over traffic safety and community engagement dominated the Jersey City Municipal Council meeting on January 29, 2025. Residents voiced urgent calls for improved pedestrian safety measures, particularly on Monticello Avenue, where children frequently cross for school. Veronica de Leonca Roman, director of Small Discoveries Preschool, highlighted the need for marked crosswalks, pedestrian islands, and speed reduction measures at high-risk intersections. She emphasized that safe streets are essential for both the safety of children and the viability of local businesses.

Community members expressed frustration over ongoing traffic issues, with one resident noting a lack of visible traffic enforcement despite numerous complaints. The council was urged to ensure that the traffic division is adequately deployed to address these concerns.

Additionally, discussions touched on broader community issues, including the need for local hiring practices in city developments. Residents called for prioritizing employment opportunities for local youth over hiring from outside areas, stressing the importance of community investment.

As the meeting progressed, concerns about landlord-tenant relations were also raised, with calls for a more experienced administration to handle these issues effectively. The community's desire for transparency and accountability from city officials was palpable, as residents sought reassurance that their voices were being heard and that action would follow.

The council's commitment to addressing these pressing issues will be crucial in fostering a safer and more inclusive environment for all Jersey City residents.