Reconsider and reopen two-way traffic for local residents

Recent signers:
Stacey McConnell and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

We, the undersigned residents of Winnetka, are writing to express our deep concern regarding the recent implementation of the one-way traffic restriction near the Home Alone house. While we recognize that this measure was introduced to manage tourist traffic in the area, it has created significant hardship and unintended safety risks for local residents.

Our Concerns
Inconvenience and Access:
The one-way rule has forced residents to take extended, roundabout routes simply to reach their homes. What was once a short drive now requires unnecessary detours that waste time and fuel, particularly affecting families with children, seniors, and working commuters.

Increased Safety Risks on Narrow Streets:
Redirecting visitor and through-traffic onto nearby residential streets—many of which are narrower and not designed for high traffic volumes—has increased congestion and danger. Children who walk, bike, or play in these neighborhoods are now at greater risk due to the added vehicle flow.

Lack of Community Consultation:
This decision was made without adequate input from local residents, despite the direct impact it has on our quality of life and neighborhood safety. As taxpayers and community members, we believe residents deserve a voice in such impactful infrastructure changes.
Our Request
We respectfully demand that the Village of Winnetka immediately review and reconsider the one-way traffic policyand reinstate two-way access for local residents.

Furthermore, we request that:

The Village hold a public consultation or town hall meeting to gather resident input.
A comprehensive traffic and safety study be conducted to evaluate the effects of diverted traffic on surrounding streets.

Alternative visitor management solutions—such as designated tourist parking areas, signage, or timed restrictions—be explored to reduce congestion near the Home Alone house without compromising resident access and safety.

Conclusion
We urge the Village to act swiftly to restore safe, practical, and community-oriented traffic management in this area. 

By signing below, we affirm our support for reinstating two-way traffic for local residents and for engaging the community in future transportation planning decisions.

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Recent signers:
Stacey McConnell and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

We, the undersigned residents of Winnetka, are writing to express our deep concern regarding the recent implementation of the one-way traffic restriction near the Home Alone house. While we recognize that this measure was introduced to manage tourist traffic in the area, it has created significant hardship and unintended safety risks for local residents.

Our Concerns
Inconvenience and Access:
The one-way rule has forced residents to take extended, roundabout routes simply to reach their homes. What was once a short drive now requires unnecessary detours that waste time and fuel, particularly affecting families with children, seniors, and working commuters.

Increased Safety Risks on Narrow Streets:
Redirecting visitor and through-traffic onto nearby residential streets—many of which are narrower and not designed for high traffic volumes—has increased congestion and danger. Children who walk, bike, or play in these neighborhoods are now at greater risk due to the added vehicle flow.

Lack of Community Consultation:
This decision was made without adequate input from local residents, despite the direct impact it has on our quality of life and neighborhood safety. As taxpayers and community members, we believe residents deserve a voice in such impactful infrastructure changes.
Our Request
We respectfully demand that the Village of Winnetka immediately review and reconsider the one-way traffic policyand reinstate two-way access for local residents.

Furthermore, we request that:

The Village hold a public consultation or town hall meeting to gather resident input.
A comprehensive traffic and safety study be conducted to evaluate the effects of diverted traffic on surrounding streets.

Alternative visitor management solutions—such as designated tourist parking areas, signage, or timed restrictions—be explored to reduce congestion near the Home Alone house without compromising resident access and safety.

Conclusion
We urge the Village to act swiftly to restore safe, practical, and community-oriented traffic management in this area. 

By signing below, we affirm our support for reinstating two-way traffic for local residents and for engaging the community in future transportation planning decisions.

The Decision Makers

Winnetka Village Council
3 Members
Scott Myers
Winnetka Village Council
Kirk Albinson
Winnetka Village Council
Bridget Orsic
Winnetka Village Council
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