Residents press for speed surveys and Caltrans studies as traffic increases near casino

Residents repeatedly raised concerns that state highway speeds and the casinos 24-hour operation will increase crash risk for pedestrians and drivers. One resident said: "When I run, it's kinda terrifying going through town," and asked whether the city could lower the posted speed; another said the approach to town often sees drivers at 65 mph. Officials replied that speed changes require a formal speed survey through Caltrans or CHP and that such surveys would likely occur after the casino opens.

Sheriff Redmond and city representatives said they will explore measures such as flashing radar signs and increased enforcement; Redmond said the sheriff's office plans targeted enforcement and training for deputies on lidar and radar. The city ad hoc committee said it will press for review of prior traffic studies and discuss other engineering options with Caltrans, though officials cautioned that Caltrans typically reacts to documented increases in crashes before installing signals or roundabouts.