South Merrick Civic Talks Safety, Beautification Projects

Improving the quality of life in South Merrick was top of mind at Tuesday's South Merrick Community Civic Association's meeting.

With two new members as well as Legis. Dave Denenberg and Brian Schneider from the department of public works in tow, attendees discussed a variety of issues, from policing to pedestrian walkways.

The biggest safety issues, according to those at the meeting, is the area by Trader Joe's on Merrick Road, as well as the speeding that residents have noticed.

"There is no left turn signal by Trader Joe's, but people are trying to make a left turn. That causes a very dangerous situation," said Meme Wanderman. Although the food store has hired a security guard to direct traffic, those in attendance thought that it was only a matter of time before an accident or fatality was caused by the congestion.

"I saw a woman walking with a baby carriage over there and she almost got hit," said one member. "The drivers don't even look for pedestrians."

"There is a tremendous amount of traffic," said Alan Jasper, member of SMCCA, who suggested putting up a traffic light.

Schneider agreed. "Trader Joe's is a problem area," he said. As for putting a traffic light up, Schneider said that it might not be possible because it wasn't at an intersection, but that he would see if a study could be done to make improvements.

A recent fatality came across the minds of members as they discussed a possible footbridge that would sit above Sunrise Highway so that commuters would feel safer crossing.

New member, Frank, suggested either a footbridge or pushing the crosswalks back a bit so that if someone cuts the corner, they will be able to stop, making it safer for those who walk to the train station from the south.

"Would someone going to Dunkin Donuts on Hewlett Avenue walk to a footbridge? Probably not," said one member.

Joe Baker, president of SMCCA, said that he believed that if the bridge was in the middle – Merrick Avenue – not only would commuters use it, but it would be a "shot in the arm to small business owners on Merrick Avenue" because it would encourage people to walk over and shop.

Another fatality in nearby Bellmore was also spoken of when members spoke about the amount of speeding that has been seen on Merrick Road.

"I don't see enough enforcement," said Baker. "It needs to be beefed up. It is out of hand."

Denenberg said that he would speak to the Seventh Precinct and see if there was anything that could be done to get more patrol cars on Merrick Road.

In addition, a new commitee was formed to make some beautification changes. Named Merrick Road Improvement Committee (MRIC), the committee will attempt to plant trees and flowers, as well as work with both the town and county on solutions to signage that seems to be becoming more prevalent.