Letter to the Editor: 'Keep Oakland Ave Speeders in Check'

To the Editor:

I have observed that cars traveling down Oakland Avenue from Highland and Hillside toward Grand frequently drive very, very fast–far above the posted 25 mph speed limit. This is a hazard for other motorists, bicyclists, and especially pedestrians, including schoolchildren who must cross Oakland Avenue on their way to or from school.

I suspect that most of these drivers are simply unaware that they are driving 10 or 20 mph above the speed limit. On the downhill section of Oakland (a wide, straight street), it is very easy to go too fast without realizing it.

Therefore, may I humbly propose that the Police Department deploy one of those portable speed-measuring signs that tell a driver how fast he or she is going, with a reminder that the speed limit is 25 mph. Placing it around Jerome Avenue where the slope levels out in the southwest-traveling direction would be great.

Increased enforcement would be nice too, but I really think education is the key here.

Thank you,
Michael Vinson
Latham Street resident

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