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Residents push for traffic-calming, fast truck-signage fixes after repeated tractor-trailer incidents
Summary
Council discussed borough-wide traffic and pedestrian safety planning, including targeted truck restrictions; residents described multiple 53-foot tractor-trailer incidents and property damage, and Public Works and police agreed to review ordinances, signage, and whether a borough-wide traffic study is appropriate.
Westchester — Residents and councilmembers urged faster action on traffic-calming and truck restrictions after repeated incidents involving large trucks on narrow borough streets.
Councilmembers said they are receiving many requests for crosswalks, flashing beacons and other calming measures on streets including Chestnut, Ashbridge and High Street. Interim Director of Public Works Don Anderson and Police Chief Josh Lee advised first reviewing ordinances used by neighboring municipalities to ensure Westchester’s language would withstand legal challenge and allow enforceable truck prohibitions.
Resident Anne Carol described multiple recent incidents involving 53-foot tractor-trailers getting stuck on narrow streets, damage to vehicle mirrors and lengthy on-scene responses. "I'm tired of directing traffic," she said, asking for expedited signage that could be enforced by counting axles or other simple measures.
Council discussed whether to commission a borough-wide traffic study to prioritize interventions versus targeted, faster fixes on problem streets. Public Works agreed to review the ordinance, check signage needs and report back with a recommended approach.
Next steps: Public Works to audit current truck-related ordinance language and signage, consult example ordinances (e.g., East Bradford) and return with recommendations for enforcement and possible study scope.
