Residents of Woodfield Estates push for traffic safety measures on Beekman Lane

In the heart of Hillsborough, New Jersey, residents gathered at the Township Committee Meeting on April 8, 2025, to voice pressing concerns about traffic safety in their neighborhood. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as community members shared their experiences, particularly focusing on the challenges faced at the intersection of 10 Eye Court and Beekman Lane.

One resident, speaking on behalf of neighbors, highlighted a significant increase in traffic over the past year, particularly from Amwell Road into Woodfield Estates. The resident described a dangerous blind spot at the corner, where visibility is severely limited, making it difficult for drivers and pedestrians to navigate safely. “It feels like playing safety roulette,” they remarked, emphasizing the risks posed to families with young children and new drivers in the area.

The discussion turned to potential solutions, with residents suggesting the installation of speed bumps, increased police presence, and clearer signage to deter illegal parking by delivery trucks and service vehicles that exacerbate the visibility issues. While some committee members expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of speed bumps, citing concerns over emergency vehicle access and maintenance challenges, the urgency of the residents’ concerns was palpable.

The police department has already begun addressing the issue by deploying a radar trailer to monitor speeds, although residents noted that its current positioning does not adequately capture the speeding vehicles entering from Amwell. “If the radar trailer faced the other way, we’d get better data,” one resident pointed out, advocating for a more comprehensive traffic study to assess the situation accurately.

As the meeting progressed, the committee acknowledged the need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration with residents. They assured the community that traffic studies are in the works, albeit at a cost, and that the police department is actively exploring various strategies to enhance safety.

In a poignant moment, a resident shared their personal connection to the issue, recalling past accidents in the area and expressing a deep concern for the safety of children crossing the street. “I couldn’t relax thinking that someone’s going to get hurt,” they said, underscoring the emotional weight of the discussion.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the committee to continue working with residents to find effective solutions. As Hillsborough navigates these pressing traffic concerns, the voices of its community members remain a vital force in shaping a safer environment for all.