Residents Concerned About Safety in Revised Alameda Avenue Plan

The Battle Over Safety on Alameda Avenue: A Community Divided

In recent weeks, concern has risen in Denver over the newly revised plans for the notorious Alameda Avenue, with local residents, advocates, and city officials clashing over what some see as a dangerous compromise. Eight members of Denver City Council have sent a letter to Mayor Mike Johnston, expressing ‘grave concerns’ about changes to what was once a carefully crafted 'road diet' plan designed to enhance safety in one of the city's most hazardous stretches of roadway.

Originally, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) aimed to narrow Alameda Avenue from four to two lanes, instituting additional measures for pedestrian safety. Yet, community advocates believe that the recent shift back to maintaining three lanes reflects the influence of a few wealthy homeowners who voiced concerns about traffic times. It raises the question: at what cost does efficiency come?

Community Voices and Safety Concerns

The letter from council members states, “Residents have been fighting diligently for safety protections on Alameda for over a decade.” Both parents and children have voiced fears over incidents that could potentially involve pedestrians being struck by vehicles, flipping cars, and other hazardous situations. The urgency of their plight echoes through community meetings, where parents like Jaime Livaditis recounted personal experiences of their children being hit by vehicles in the area.

Discontent Among Advocates and Residents

Despite DOTI’s assurances that the revised design maintains safety standards, numerous residents remain unconvinced, citing a lack of sufficient community engagement. Critics argue that DOTI altered the plans after discussions with influential lobbyists, including members of the Anschutz family. The West Washington Park Neighborhood Association has been vocal in their belief that the original plan could have reduced accidents by as much as 50% and provided crucial buffers for pedestrians.

The Bigger Picture: Safety Versus Convenience

As traffic patterns evolve, residents and officials alike wrestle with the balance between safety measures and convenience for motorists. DOTI argues that maintaining three lanes will alleviate congestion and reduce frustration among drivers, claiming a change would only marginally impact travel times. However, what remains clear is the heightened tension between stakeholders’ interests, with community advocates emphasizing the necessity of prioritizing pedestrian safety above vehicular convenience.

Moving Forward: What’s Next?

With the City Council representing a majority expressing the need for the original safety plan, the future of Alameda Avenue hangs in the balance. Following heavy criticism, DOTI remains committed to engaging the community on this important issue, yet many residents feel it could be too little, too late. The landscape of public safety initiatives is evolving, and it is clear that both sides must collaborate to forge a path forward that protects the wellbeing of all residents.

If you are a concerned citizen in the Alameda area, it’s essential to advocate for your community and voice your thoughts on the current proposals. Your voice makes a difference in shaping a safer future for all families using this road.