Traffic & Safety Commission urges crosswalks, median signs and signage fixes after review of trouble spots

Jordan, identified at the meeting as chairman of the Traffic & Safety Commission, told the Village Council Sept. 26 that the commission has reviewed citizen complaints citywide and recommended a series of targeted safety measures.

"The police have been very helpful ... and that has helped give credence to some of the claims," Jordan said, citing coordinated police reports the commission used to evaluate speeding and incident histories. The commission recommended no action on some requests where crosswalks and parking already exist, but proposed specific fixes at higher‑risk sites.

Key recommendations presented to council included installing an east‑west crosswalk with cutouts between the Dog Park and Veterans Park, placing breakaway "yield to pedestrians" signs in medians at crosswalks with medians (initial focus: Madison/Harlem), repainting faded yellow curbs near schools to improve sight lines, and adding simple signage or mirrors to address a blind alley near Starbucks to reduce conflicts.

For the Madison/Harlem crossing, the commission offered a four‑option menu that escalates by cost and intrusiveness: (1) verify and repair crosswalk lights; (2) add breakaway median signage; (3) modify parking to create a right‑turn lane; and (4) relocate the crosswalk. Jordan said the commission’s primary emphasis was option two, noting a breakaway sign would deter drivers from using medians while allowing emergency vehicles to pass.

Council members responded favorably to the presentation and encouraged staff follow‑up. Commissioner Maxam called the work "very informative," asked that the presentation be posted on the village website, and urged the council and department heads to prioritize low‑cost items such as curb painting and battery checks on crosswalk lights. Several commissioners noted ADA compliance considerations for curb cuts and said they would coordinate with Public Works on implementation and timing.

The presentation also highlighted an instance where the commission quickly helped get school‑zone signage installed where markings existed on pavement but signage was missing. Jordan said he had driven by and confirmed signs were posted.

Next steps: council asked staff to post the standalone Traffic & Safety presentation online and directed departments to evaluate timing, ADA compliance and budget implications for the commission's prioritized recommendations.