The intersection of Universe and Irving, located in the heart of Ventana Ranch, Albuquerque, NM, has been the site of several tragic accidents that have greatly affected our community. As a resident, I have personally witnessed the devastating consequences of red light runners and excessive speeding. Sadly, some of our neighbors have lost their lives due to these preventable incidents. This intersection is not just another crossroad; it is a vital part of our daily lives, serving hundreds of homeowners, commuters, and pedestrians, all of whom deserve to feel safe without fear of a catastrophe occurring at any moment.

The danger at this intersection is ever-present, and the statistics only underscore the urgency of the situation. According to the Albuquerque Journal's recent traffic report, over 50 accidents have been recorded at Universe and Irving in the past two years alone. Speeding vehicles, coupled with drivers running red lights, have compounded these accidents, resulting in severe injuries and fatalities that should never have happened.

To protect our community and prevent future tragedies, I am calling for an immediate evaluation of this intersection by the city’s traffic engineering department and demanding this be a focus of our next city councilor. We need concrete actions such as the installation of speed cameras to deter lawbreakers, addition of turn lane signals as a cool off period in between light changes,  and/or alternate traffic-calming measures to help reduce vehicle speeds. Additionally, increasing police presence during peak hours can act as both a deterrent and a rapid response option in the event of traffic violations.

By implementing these measures, we can significantly reduce the number of accidents and save lives at the intersection of Universe and Irving. This is not just about improving a road; it’s about safeguarding our community and giving peace of mind to every resident, visitor, and passerby.

I urge you to stand with us and demand change for a safer intersection. Please sign this petition to push for necessary evaluations and improvements that will make Universe and Irving a safe crossing for all. Together, we can make a difference and prevent further loss in our beloved community.