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In the Edgemont neighborhood of West Edmonton, a heartbreaking tragedy has left the community grappling with grief and anger after a grandmother tragically lost her life while crossing the street with her grandson. This devastating incident has reignited urgent conversations about traffic safety in the area.
Residents are expressing their frustration, pointing to years of complaints and pleas for action that have seemingly fallen on deaf ears. Isn’t it time for change?
Long-standing concerns about traffic safety
Troy Mettlewsky, a local resident, has voiced the shared feelings of the community, saying, “We’ve made our 311 complaints, called the city non-emergency line, this has been going on for years.” His comments reflect a deep-seated urgency and a belief that without immediate action, the threat of further tragedies remains.
Sadly, many residents had long feared that it would take a loss of life to spur the city into action, and their worst fears have come true.
Now, the community is calling for critical traffic control measures, including the installation of speed bumps and better lighting at crosswalks.
These proposals stem from a genuine desire to protect pedestrians and diminish the likelihood of future accidents. They are also advocating for tougher enforcement of traffic regulations to ensure drivers adhere to the rules.
The need for enforcement and awareness
Constable Trevor Henderson of the Edmonton police force has been closely observing traffic patterns in the Edgemont area. He has noted a concerning trend of drivers ignoring truck routes, speeding excessively, and running stop signs. “The common speed nowadays is 30 kilometers over the speed limit; it’s not 20 anymore, it’s 30,” he remarked, highlighting the pressing need for drivers to be more vigilant.
While police have indicated that speed was not a factor in the recent tragedy, Henderson continues to stress the importance of sticking to speed limits, especially in residential neighborhoods where families and children reside. “If you don’t see a sign, it’s 40, and you need to maintain that,” he advised, underscoring the critical need for driver awareness and compliance.
A community united for change
As the Edgemont community comes together following this tragic incident, their message is clear: they want action. They are calling for immediate changes to the road infrastructure that not only improve safety but also instill a sense of security among residents. The push for speed bumps, clearer signage, and enhanced traffic light systems reflects a proactive stance aimed at preventing future accidents.
This incident has served as a wake-up call for city officials, urging them to heed the voices of the community. The hope is that through collaborative efforts, a safer environment can be created for all residents. As discussions continue, the focus remains on prioritizing safety and ensuring that no more lives are lost due to preventable circumstances. Isn’t it time to make our streets safer for everyone?
