Urgent Traffic Safety Measures Proposed for Dangerous Intersections

A recent village council meeting addressed pressing traffic safety concerns, particularly at the intersections of Oak Street and Glen Avenue, as well as North Maple Avenue and Mulberry Place. The meeting featured presentations from local law enforcement and engineering officials, highlighting a significant rise in traffic accidents at these locations.

Captain Ender reported that the intersection of Oak and Glen has seen 11 accidents in 2023 alone, a notable increase from previous years. The council discussed various strategies to mitigate these incidents, including potential changes to traffic signals and road configurations. The village engineer, Chris Rudesshauser, emphasized the challenges posed by the intersection's design, which is complicated by its status as a county road. He noted that Oak Street is often used as a bypass for drivers looking to avoid congestion at the nearby Glen and Maple intersection.

The council is awaiting results from a traffic study conducted by Bergen County, which could inform future decisions. Mayor Vaginos expressed urgency in addressing the safety issues, especially with new sidewalks being installed to facilitate pedestrian access for schoolchildren. He urged the council to prioritize this matter and consider interim measures if the county does not act swiftly.

Several proposals were discussed, including making Oak Street a one-way street or implementing right-turn-only restrictions at the intersection to reduce the risk of accidents. While these options may be unpopular with some residents, the council members acknowledged that safety must take precedence.

Additionally, the meeting touched on a request for a pedestrian-activated crosswalk warning system at North Maple Avenue and Mulberry Place. However, Sergeant Torino indicated that the pedestrian traffic volume does not currently justify such an installation.

The council plans to revisit these discussions in August, aiming to develop concrete proposals based on the forthcoming traffic study results. The emphasis remains on ensuring the safety of residents, particularly children, as new infrastructure is introduced in the area.