KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – A perceived spike in serious traffic accidents in the Stuart Neighborhood has residents there concerned, even taking the law into their own hands, and demanding the city take action.
They say altered traffic patterns downtown and speeding drivers are the problem.
Concerns escalated after the city removed two unauthorized signs put up by a local resident, urging drivers to slow down. The plan was to put up 20 more, but the city responded within a day to remove them.
The city has plans for traffic calming and other changes when they resume work on the Streets for All rebuild downtown next year, but Stuart board member Elijah Isch told city commissioners last week that they don’t think it’s safe to wait.
“The reality is there’s safety issues now, there was 8 accidents this spring on West Main and Douglas that could have resulted in death of pedestrians and drivers,” said Isch.
Jessica Van Stratten asked for the immediate installation of 25 mph signs on six more roads, and two radar activated 35 mph signs on West Main Street and Kalamazoo Avenue along with three more speed bumps next spring.
“As we continue to build a beautiful and safe community for all people who are either living there or coming downtown.”
Residents say they have been complaining to staff for well over a year about the issues and gotten no action.
We asked the city for reaction to the complaints last week and have also gotten no response.
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