We, the undersigned residents and property owners on Cherry Street between River and Waltham Streets as well as abutting properties, petition for the Newton Department of Public Works, Transportation Division, to reduce the current speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph on Cherry Street, between River and Waltham Streets. 

This portion of Cherry Street is just as densely settled as the southern segment (between River and Washington Streets), which has a 25 mph speed limit. However, drivers often use this 30 mph section as a throughway. Because it is one of the few north–south roads in West Newton with limited stops, drivers tend to accelerate beyond speeds that are safe for a residential area. Speeding cars and road rage are witnessed by Cherry Street residents. Multiple cars have accidentally run red lights at the intersection of Derby and Cherry, several of them causing significant accidents. By lowering the speed limit, we can address the misconception that Cherry Street is a throughway and enforce a safer, more cautious driving culture.

Even more critically, this area is bordering the Franklin Elementary school zone. The Derby/Cherry pedestrian crossing is highly frequented by the neighborhood, especially during school drop-off and dismissal hours but also throughout the day. An additional pedestrian crossing will be added between Derby and Pleasant Street in 2026, which will necessitate even more vigilance from drivers. The current rebuilding of Franklin Elementary and its fields will only increase the neighborhood's desire to use its building and green spaces, likely further increasing pedestrian traffic.

Statistics consistently show that lower speed limits reduce the number and severity of accidents. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, a 5 mph reduction can significantly decrease the probability of vehicle and pedestrian accidents, especially in residential neighborhoods like ours. With many families, children, and elderly residents living along Cherry Street, adopting this change is not only sensible but imperative.

We - the residents, property owners, and neighbors of Cherry Street - urge the Newton Department of Public Works to prioritize the safety and well-being of our community. We already have the support of Julia Malakie (Ward 3 City Councilor for Newton), Andrea W. Kelley (Ward 3 Councilor-at-Large), Pam Wright (Ward 3 Councilor-at-Large), as well as Jason Bhardwaj (School Committee Representative).

Please sign this petition to show your support for implementing a reduced speed limit and safer driving conditions on Cherry Street.