Residents push for patrols, speed deterrents as reconstruction brings heavy trucks to Southeast Westland

Multiple residents in Southeast Westland urged the City Council on Monday to increase police presence and add physical speed deterrents after an uptick in heavy-truck traffic and speeding during the reconstruction of Van Born at Henry Ruff.

Lori Wilson, a resident of the Annapolis Park subdivision, told the council that the historic district — designated at the state and federal level in February 2006, she said — has seen a decline in police oversight and an increase in large trucks and speeding vehicles on residential streets. “We respectfully request that the city council review with the administration review current policies and resource allocations related to police patrols and community engagement,” Wilson said.

Mr. Warren, who identified himself as president of the Southeast Westland Homeowners Association, and other residents described 18-wheelers and car haulers using Julius Boulevard between Henry Ruff and Dancy, impatient drivers cutting across yards to bypass congestion, and only one existing speed hump on Julius despite repeated requests for additional traffic-calming measures.

Multiple speakers said the situation developed while Van Born is under reconstruction and that they fear for seniors and children in the neighborhood. “Without sufficient oversight, you risk not only the safety of individuals and families, but also the integrity of the city's concerns for its residents south of Michigan Avenue,” one resident said.

Council members responded by urging administration to produce a concrete, measurable plan. Councilman Hart asked for an “action plan from the administration” with specific, time-bound goals so council members can report back to concerned residents. Pro Tem Sampe said leadership had been emailed and she would follow up with the mayor’s office; Council President McDermott said he had already discussed patrol increases with Police Chief Kyle Dolly.

Council members and staff acknowledged operational limits: while the police chief controls patrol allocation, the council asked administration for a coordinated approach that could include increased patrols, temporary signage, additional speed humps or other physical measures and community engagement. Council members pressed for a tangible timeline and measurable steps the administration can execute and report back to the council.

The council did not approve a formal ordinance at the meeting; instead members requested that administration and the police department develop and circulate a concrete plan of action to address the issues raised by residents.