We, the undersigned residents of Bell Crest and neighboring areas on 91st Street and Bergenwood Avenue, are deeply concerned about our neighborhood's growing traffic safety hazards, particularly at the intersection of 91st Street and Bergenwood Avenue. The increasing number of speeding vehicles, traffic accidents, near misses, failure to stop at stop signs, blocking intersections, and high traffic volume have created an unsafe environment for our families, children, and the entire community members.

The Problem:

I want to start by acknowledging the township's steps to address the traffic issues at the intersection of 91st Street and Bergenwood Ave., also known as "Hell Corner." The NBPD's installation of "Don't Block the Box" lines, flashing stop signs, and speed bumps on the approach from Route 1&9 is appreciated. However, this intersection remains an ongoing and serious hazard despite these measures.  Drivers from 1&9 continue to disregard the stop sign, and the "Box" is consistently blocked, morning, noon, and night. This is not a temporary issue—it is a persistent danger that risks drivers' safety. The current measures are insufficient, and the situation is only worsening.  Our Association urgently calls on the Township to take immediate and decisive action to address this safety issue. I was previously told that making 91st Street a one-way was "never going to happen." My immediate response is: Why not? For years, we’ve been given one excuse after another—such as the need for a traffic study (suggested to us a decade ago)—and handed nothing more than temporary band-aid solutions. It’s clear that these half-measures are not working, and it’s time for an honest, lasting solution. We can no longer afford to be put off with vague promises and inaction. We cannot afford to wait any longer for a solution that effectively addresses the ongoing dangers at this intersection. 

The Solution:

We respectfully request the implementation of the following traffic safety measures to address these concerns:

1. To reduce speeding, install speed bumps or stop signs along Bergenwood and 91st Street. 

2.  Change the locations of the traffic lights for smoother traffic flow. 

3. Implement a traffic police presence to prevent drivers from blocking the box. 

4. Consider decreasing the traffic coming from 1&9 onto Bergenwood Ave. 

5. Any solutions the traffic safety board considers feasible should be explored. 

Call to Action:

We urge the City Council/Department of Transportation to prioritize the safety of our community by taking swift action to address these hazards. The lives and well-being of our residents depend on proactive measures to prevent accidents and injuries and improve the quality of life for residents in this area.