Jordan Russo advocates for safety improvements at Cane Lake Road intersection

The Streator City Council meeting on June 18, 2025, featured a poignant appeal from local resident Jordan Russo regarding safety concerns at the intersection of M Y 18 and Cane Lake Road. Russo, who lost his significant other in a tragic accident at this location, has been advocating for improvements to enhance safety for drivers and pedestrians.

During his address, Russo highlighted the dangers of the intersection, citing 23 crashes over the past nine years, resulting in 30 injuries and one fatality. He expressed frustration over the lack of urgency from state and county highway offices, emphasizing that a formal request from the city could significantly increase the chances of action being taken. Russo's efforts include a memorial at the site, which he hopes will raise awareness about the intersection's hazards.

In addition to Russo's testimony, the council discussed a resolution authorizing a temporary closure of a portion of Westbound Illinois Route 18 and the north lane of Bridge Street. This closure is related to an upcoming event, Cruz Knight, and aims to facilitate safer traffic flow during the event.

The meeting underscored the community's ongoing concerns about road safety and the need for proactive measures to prevent further tragedies at dangerous intersections. The council's response to Russo's appeal and the approval of the traffic resolution will be closely watched by residents advocating for safer streets.