Bankers Hill & Hillcrest, two vibrant communities in San Diego, are increasingly burdened by the unchecked chaos of traffic law violations and illegal street activities. Residents and pedestrians in the area face daily challenges as they navigate streets that should otherwise offer them safety and peace of mind.

It's time for the San Diego Police Department (SDPD), Stephen Whitburn, Mayor Todd Gloria and our City Council to take decisive action in addressing these growing concerns.

In recent months, the increase in reckless driving, speeding, vehicle noise levels, unauthorised parking and road closures has not only jeopardised the safety of residents but also threatened the wellbeing of pedestrians. The situation is exacerbated by the inadequate enforcement of existing traffic laws, which has emboldened offenders and left residents feeling helpless.

Construction companies close down streets for no reason but for their workers to park their own vehicles there, whilst residents have to pay to park. 

Countless stories from local residents and visitors tell of close encounters and dangerous situations caused by speeding vehicles neglecting traffic signals. Pedestrians, including children and the elderly, particularly feel the brunt of these violations as they struggle to cross intersections safely at pedestrian crossings, where vehicles do not stop for them or crawl dangerously close to pedestrians.

These activities diminish the quality of life and deter potential visitors, which in turn affects local businesses and the community's economic vitality, especially near heavily touristed Balboa Park.

To rectify this situation, we urge San Diego District 3 Councilmember Stephen Whitburn, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, the San Diego City Council and the SDPD to prioritize the enforcement of traffic laws in Bankers Hill and Hillcrest, and implement a comprehensive plan that includes the following measures:

1. Increase the presence of traffic officers to monitor and enforce speed limits, traffic signals, parking violations and unauthorized road closures.

2. Install speed cameras and red-light cameras at critical intersections to deter violations - an excellent fund raiser.             

3. Collaborate with local neighborhood associations to develop community-driven solutions and raise awareness.

4. Monitor vehicle noise according to California law (Vehicle Code 27150 & 27151) that requires all motor vehicles to have an adequate, properly maintained muffler, prohibiting any modification that increases noise above 95 decibels (dB) for most passenger vehicles. Especially as construction vehicles arrive at 5am to secure free parking in the neighborhoods.

5. Implement validated Resident Parking Free Zones within Bankers Hill and Hillcrest.

By implementing these measures, we can reclaim our streets and ensure Bankers Hill and Hillcrest remain safe and vibrant neighborhoods.

We call on every resident and concerned citizen to support this cause for a safer, more secure community.

Please sign this petition to urge our local leaders to take immediate and effective action in enforcing traffic laws and curbing illegal street activities in Bankers Hill and Hillcrest, ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone who calls these communities of San Diego home.