Many citizens have been calling for expanded transportation and unstructured recreation programs -- like safe neighborhoods. Many new subdivisions have what is referred to as a "feeder" road, where all other side streets access main roads from a single point, or see cul-de-sacs threatened as they are modified and become main thoroughfares. Many areas have become "cut-throughs" for local people in a hurry to get from point A to point B, oblivious to this being a race through your neighborhood.
People have long asked for (or complained, if you're on the receiving side of the feedback) to council -- asking them to take action. Make sure sidewalks are connected, increase the number and marking for pedestrian crosswalks, enforce pedestrians being given the right-of-way, make the town's streets more bicycle and family friendly, add "nonessential" stop signs, speed bumps or other traffic calming measures. It's been stated traffic humps will "never happen" in our town.
Even though town administration has often ducked, dodged or delayed a comprehensive or cohesive response -- and since we can't tie up elected officials and use them as an alternative to slow traffic -- the Christiansburg Police Department has been listening.
Drivers see more bicycle patrols in various areas of our community -- and they are equipped with radar. Now they are asking that citizens let them know if neighborhood speed limits are being abused. Radar Around the Residences will provide a random focus on trouble areas, paying officers overtime with the use of a grant from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. Know where there's a problem? Contact daltizer@christiansburg.org or call 392-6123 and invite the officers into your neighborhood, even though they may already have an extensive list based on past calls.
Our Police Department is also conducting a bicycle identification and safety program, allowing citizens to register their bikes -- and they have a limited number of bike helmets to distribute, too. Officers and some special guests are scheduled to be at the Toy Station at the Christiansburg Depot in Cambria Saturday, March 21 from noon until 2 pm -- grab your bikes and the kids (if you have them), enjoy a few hours in this historic district and get to know your local officers.
With gasoline prices creeping up again and the weather getting nicer, it is great to see our Police Department engaging the community and working to enhance community safety.
More no-gas required options + more recreation activities + safer neighborhoods + no local cost to taxpayers - less speeding = good policing. Kudos!