Queen Creek Police Chief Bryce reports 402% rise in 911 calls and traffic challenges

The Queen Creek Town Council convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss critical budgetary matters, focusing on transportation and public safety amid rising population and traffic challenges. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure improvements and police staffing to address increasing demands on services.

During the session, town officials presented a detailed analysis of traffic conditions, revealing that certain areas, particularly the northeastern part of Queen Creek, are experiencing significant growth. This growth has led to a concerning increase in traffic congestion, with projections indicating that if no action is taken, service levels will continue to decline over the next 25 years. The council emphasized the importance of a comprehensive transportation master plan, which includes road widening and intersection improvements, particularly on Ironwood and Meridian Roads.

Chief of Police Randy Bryce followed with a presentation on public safety, revealing a staggering 402% increase in 911 calls over the past two years. This surge in demand has prompted the department to request additional staffing to maintain service levels and effectively manage the growing workload. The chief noted that while the increase in calls is alarming, it reflects the department's proactive approach to community engagement and crime prevention.

The police department's statistics indicated a rise in various crime categories, including a 707% increase in youth arrests, which underscores the need for targeted youth engagement initiatives. Despite the uptick in certain crimes, the department has successfully reduced violent crime rates, showcasing effective strategies in place.

The budget proposal presented to the council included a request for 15 new positions within the police department, aimed at enhancing operational capacity and addressing specific community needs, such as youth outreach and traffic enforcement. The total budget increase for the department is projected at $9.5 million, primarily driven by personnel costs and necessary equipment upgrades.

In conclusion, the Queen Creek Town Council's budget meeting underscored the pressing need for infrastructure enhancements and increased public safety resources to accommodate the town's rapid growth. As the council prepares to finalize the budget, the discussions highlighted a commitment to ensuring that Queen Creek remains a safe and well-connected community for its residents.