Living on the stretch of Meacham Ave. between Northwest Highway and Sibley in Park Ridge, IL, means being part of a family-focused community where the safety of our children is a top priority. As residents who cherish the vibrancy and energy that young families bring to our neighborhood, it is alarming to see the removal of the speed bumps that once served as a crucial safety measure on our streets. We request that our speed bumps be grandfathered in and restored.

Meacham Ave. is frequently used as a shortcut for cars commuting on Northwest Hwy., and too often these cars are in a hurry, even rolling through the stop sign at Meacham and Elm. Additionally, the unusually long length of the block culminating in a sharp curve at Sibley, with no stop sign, is dangerous. If cars pick up too much speed and try to make the curve/turn at Sibley, at the south end of the Country Club, this could lead to increased accidents in both directions.

We have children who play outside, walk to their friends' houses, and ride their bikes in our community. Without the speed bumps, the risk of speeding vehicles poses a significant threat to their safety. This isn't just our concern; it is a matter of public safety for every single resident in this area. Parents across our blocks worry daily whether a driver will forget to slow down, putting our children in harm's way.

Research consistently supports the idea that speed bumps effectively reduce the rate of traffic accidents involving pedestrians. In fact, studies conducted by the Federal Highway Administration reveal that traffic calming measures like speed bumps can decrease overall speed by as much as 40%, which significantly reduces the potential for child-related accidents.

The decision to remove these speed bumps might not have considered the full impact on the community. The safety of our children should never be compromised. Therefore, we urge the city council and relevant authorities in Park Ridge to act swiftly in reinstating and grandfathering in the speed bumps on Meacham Ave. 

Your signature can help us communicate to the decision-makers that the community demands a safe environment for our children. By signing, you are taking a step towards ensuring safer streets and a more secure neighborhood. Step up and make our roads safe again. Help us protect our youngest and most vulnerable residents.