Homewood City Council holds public hearing on traffic calming measures for Oxmoor Road

A public hearing held on July 14, 2025, by the Homewood City Council focused on the urgent need for traffic calming measures on the western end of Oxmoor Road, particularly near Northmoor Drive and Oakmoor Drive. Residents voiced their concerns about increasing traffic and speeding, which they believe pose significant risks to children and pedestrians in the area.

Beverly Bryce LaBeouf, a local resident, highlighted the dangers of cut-through traffic and speeding, emphasizing the need for measures that would not only slow down vehicles but also deter drivers from using residential streets as shortcuts. "It's really dangerous," she stated, pointing out the high number of children who walk to nearby schools and parks.

Paul Liggott, another resident and parent, echoed these sentiments, sharing his experiences crossing the street with his children. He argued that the area should be treated as a neighborhood rather than a thoroughfare, advocating for the installation of speed tables to enhance safety. "Sometimes you have to put something in the way to get their attention," he said, stressing the importance of protecting children from fast-moving traffic.

The council received overwhelming support from residents, with multiple speakers sharing personal stories about the dangers they face daily. Ryan Melvin, who lives near the proposed traffic calming measures, described the anxiety he feels watching children cross the street. "It's terrifying," he said, urging the council to take action.

In response to the public outcry, the council discussed the implementation of speed tables, which are designed to slow down traffic without significantly hindering emergency vehicles. Chief Broadhead confirmed that the proposed measures would allow fire trucks to navigate the area safely while addressing the community's safety concerns.

The council is set to vote on the ordinance to install these traffic calming measures, which residents hope will lead to a safer environment for families and pedestrians in West Homewood. The anticipated outcome is a reduction in traffic speed and an overall improvement in safety for the growing number of children and families in the neighborhood.