MANCHESTER, Mo. — Residents of Manchester, Missouri, particularly those residing near the intersection of Wren Avenue and Sulphur Spring Road, can breathe a sigh of relief as the city implements new safety regulations to curb reckless driving.
Cyndy Welker, a long-time resident, voiced her concerns and highlighting the perilous conditions caused by speeding vehicles.
"I hear it every day. Buses, cars, they come in from Sulphur Springs. They fly through the intersection," Welker said, reflecting on the hazardous situation pedestrians face, particularly children walking to nearby schools.
Welker's worries are echoed by many in the community, especially with the proximity of the area to three Parkway Schools. Welker, who has resided in Ashley Place for over two decades, expressed her apprehension about the safety of children navigating the streets.
The Manchester Board of Aldermen recently passed an ordinance establishing an increased safety zone encompassing the intersection as mentioned earlier and surrounding areas. The ordinance targets violations such as speeding, careless driving, improper lane usage and failure to yield. Offenders will face fines not exceeding $225, inclusive of court costs.
"I think it's fabulous. It shows that the police chief of Manchester is really listening to our concerns … and addressing them quickly," Welker said, expressing gratitude for the swift action taken by city officials.
Mayor Mike Clement explained that discussions surrounding the establishment of an early childhood development center prompted a comprehensive review of traffic safety in the area.
"Some signage needs to be added," Clement said. "We're looking at the city taking over perhaps a portion of the street that currently is not the city's … to make the area safer for kids."
For Welker and her neighbors, this marks a small victory. However, concerns persist about the potential influx of traffic with the proposed new school.
"We are concerned that a third school in such a small area … will be way too much traffic," she said.
With the new safety measures in place, residents are hopeful for safer streets and better days ahead for Manchester.
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