AKRON, Ohio — Speeding on the streets has become a concern for Akron residents, prompting city officials to intensify efforts to tame reckless drivers.
The city's initiative to slow down speeders, initially introduced in 2020 with temporary speed tables, has shown promising results. A reported 23% reduction in speeding during the pilot program.
Acknowledging the persisting neighborhood issue, Mayor Shammas Malik underscored the need for sustained action.
"We also want to address what has been a persistent neighborhood issue," he said.
Building on the success of previous endeavors, Akron has steadily increased its efforts, adding more temporary speed tables each year.
There was an addition of 28 tables in 2022, followed by another 30 in the subsequent year and an additional 30 this year.
RELATED: Akron installs new speed tables to prevent reckless driving in neighborhoods
Moreover, responding to the overwhelming demand for traffic calming measures, Akron is set to implement additional safety measures.
This includes the installation of 30 modern speed tables along with 40 solar speed limit signs. Notably, one of the speed tables on Maple Street will be permanent, marking a significant milestone in the city's efforts to enhance road safety.
Residents welcome these initiatives, emphasizing the effectiveness of speed tables in curbing reckless driving.
RELATED: Akron residents praise speed tables, call for more permanent traffic calming methods in the city
"Because I've been over it before, you know, and you can't just go flying over them," remarked resident Andre Herring, highlighting the practical deterrent effect of speed tables.
According to Michelle Difiore, development engineering manager for the city of Akron, the reduction in speed at table locations ranges from 3 to 6 mph, significantly mitigating the risk of accidents and enhancing pedestrian safety.
Installation work is set to start within the next few weeks.
Advanced warning signs and street markings will accompany the new speed tables, ensuring motorists are well-informed and prepared for the upcoming changes.
Streets that will receive a speed table this year include:
- Maple Street
- Hall Street
- Kuder Avenue
- Chapman Drive
- Thornton Street
- Elmdale Avenue
- Clark Street
- Lover's Lane
- Shelburn Avenue
- Alaho Street
- Hammel Street
- Winhurst Drive
- North Pershing Avenue
- Battles Avenue
- 6th Street
- Wyandot Avenue
- Mohawk Avenue
- Goodview Avenue
Streets that will be getting solar speed limit signs include:
- Crosby Street
- Edgerton Road
- Fouse Avenue
- Breiding Road
- Kenmore Boulevard
- Cedar Street
- Exchange Street
- Rose Boulevard
- Delia Avenue
- Johnston Street
- South Street
- Albrecht Avenue
- George Washington Boulevard
- Thornapple Avenue
- Cole Avenue
- Sand Run Road
- Merriman Road
- East Avenue
- Hancock Avenue
- Newton Street
- Tonowanda Avenue
