Local Parent Voices Safety Concerns Over Dangerous Crossing at Howe Avenue

The Tallmadge City Council meeting on July 24, 2025, focused on community safety concerns, particularly regarding speeding and pedestrian safety on local roads. Residents voiced their experiences and proposals for improving safety measures, highlighting a recent near-miss incident involving a mother and her children on the Metropark Trails.

A concerned mother shared a harrowing experience while jogging with her double stroller. She recounted how a speeding vehicle nearly struck her children, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced safety measures at the intersection near Howe Avenue. She proposed the installation of additional traffic lights or blinking signals to alert drivers, especially during peak usage times when families frequent the trails.

City officials acknowledged the seriousness of the situation. Mayor and council members expressed their commitment to safety, noting that a plan is in place to implement a "road diet" on Howe Road. This plan aims to reduce the number of lanes from four to three, creating a pedestrian island to facilitate safer crossings. The mayor assured residents that the city is awaiting county approval to begin this project.

Additionally, the police department is monitoring traffic speeds in the area and collecting data to identify patterns of speeding. Council members encouraged residents to report incidents to help build a case for increased enforcement and presence of police in high-speed areas.

Another resident, Julia Lewis, echoed the call for action, stressing that visible police presence is crucial for deterring speeding on residential streets. She urged the council to take immediate steps to prevent potential tragedies, emphasizing that without enforcement, drivers are unlikely to slow down.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from city officials to address these safety concerns and to keep the community informed about ongoing efforts to enhance road safety in Tallmadge.