We, the undersigned residents, business owners, parents, and community members of McKeesport, respectfully request the immediate reinstatement of the stop sign on West 5th Avenue near Kemp’s, which was previously removed and has left this street unsafe.

Since the removal of the stop sign, traffic on West 5th Avenue has become dangerously fast and unpredictable. Vehicles regularly fail to slow down, creating a serious safety risk for:

Pedestrians

Children and families

Seniors

Local residents

Nearby businesses and visitors

West 5th Avenue is a well-traveled corridor that serves as a connector for residential neighborhoods, small businesses, and community spaces. The absence of a clearly marked stop has significantly reduced driver awareness and has increased the likelihood of collisions due to speeding. 

WHY THIS MATTERS

Speeding has increased since the sign’s removal

Drivers are no longer yielding or stopping as expected and driving at uncontrollable rates

The area has a history of near misses and accidents

Residents report feeling unsafe crossing or entering the roadway

This change was made without clear community input or notice

Traffic control devices like stop signs exist to prevent injuries and save lives, not inconvenience drivers.

The safety of our community must come before speed or traffic flow preferences.

OUR REQUEST

We respectfully ask the City of McKeesport and PennDOT to:

Immediately reinstall a temporary stop sign at the affected location on West 5th Avenue near Kemp’s

Conduct a formal traffic safety assessment of this section of West 5th Avenue

Permanently reinstall the stop sign if safety data supports it (as community experience already does)

Consider additional traffic-calming measures if needed

Provide clear communication and a timeline to residents regarding next steps

COMMUNITY FIRST

This petition is not about complaints — it is about prevention.

It is about listening to the people who live, work, and raise families here.

One serious accident is one too many.

By signing this petition, we are asking our local leaders to take swift, responsible action to restore safety on West 5th Avenue.

Please stand with us to protect our neighbors, our children, and our community.

SIGNATURES SUPPORT:

✔️ Safer streets

✔️ Responsible traffic control

✔️ Community-driven decision-making