John Gall demands city action after multiple crashes impact his property on Fairmount Boulevard

Concerns over traffic safety took center stage at the Cleveland Heights City Council meeting on March 3, 2025, as resident John Gall passionately addressed the ongoing dangers posed by a missing guardrail on Fairmount Boulevard. Gall, who has lived in the area since 1996, recounted a series of alarming incidents where vehicles fleeing police have crashed into his property, causing significant damage and raising serious safety concerns.

Gall's home, located at the end of a dead-end street, once featured a guardrail that was removed during a major road project in 2005. Since then, he has experienced three separate crashes, with the most recent incident resulting in extensive damage to his car and garage. Frustrated by the city's inaction, Gall expressed his dismay at the lack of a guardrail and the inadequate safety measures that have been implemented since the removal.

In response to Gall's concerns, city officials revealed that a comprehensive safety and traffic analysis is currently underway, contracted to the engineering firm GPD. This study, expected to be completed within 30 days, aims to address the traffic issues at the intersection and explore potential solutions to enhance safety for residents. City officials highlighted recent efforts, including the installation of illuminated signs and a speed hump to alert drivers, but acknowledged that more needs to be done.

Council members discussed the challenges posed by Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) regulations, which currently prevent the reinstallation of a guardrail at Gall's property. However, they emphasized their commitment to finding alternative solutions to improve safety in the area.

As the city continues to work on this pressing issue, residents like Gall remain hopeful for a resolution that will protect their homes and ensure the safety of all who travel through the intersection. The upcoming meeting with GPD is anticipated to provide further insights and potential strategies to mitigate the risks faced by the community.