Barcelona Estates, a quiet Southside neighborhood, has become the focus of growing complaints from residents over speeding cars. What was once a peaceful area is now grappling with safety concerns as vehicles zip through the streets, endangering people, pets, and property.
From Peaceful Streets to Dangerous Roads
Longtime resident Scott Garza, who has lived in the subdivision since 2016, recalls a time when speeding cars weren’t an issue. However, as the community expanded, the problem escalated. Garza recounted alarming incidents, saying, “Mailboxes have been completely destroyed due to hit-and-runs. One neighbor had a vehicle crash into her mailbox and stall on her front yard.”
The damage hasn’t been limited to property. Pets and other animals have also fallen victim to reckless drivers, amplifying residents’ frustrations.
Safety Concerns Near Galvan Elementary
Adding to the anxiety, Galvan Elementary School is located just a short walk from Garza’s home. This proximity raises serious concerns for families in the neighborhood.
“It’s less than two hundred yards away from where we’re standing right now,” Garza explained. “Parents don’t feel safe walking their children to school.”
Garza, along with other residents, believes the city has neglected to take action that could mitigate the issue. Their main request? Install traffic safety devices to slow down speeding vehicles.
A Call for Traffic Safety Measures
Garza, who works in risk management, emphasized the importance of preventative measures. “One traffic control device is a matter of thousands of dollars. One severe injury claim can be anywhere from $100,000 to $500,000,” he said.
He urged the city to consider speed humps or other traffic control devices. “At this point, any investment in public safety is paramount, whether it’s a passive control or active control measure,” he added.
The City’s Response
Despite residents’ concerns, the city stated that Garza’s street did not meet the criteria for installing speed humps. Their study revealed that the average speed on the street was 28 mph, just below the required 30 mph threshold. Additionally, traffic volume fell short of the necessary 400 vehicles per day.
However, city officials acknowledged the subdivision’s close proximity to Galvan Elementary and assured residents they would conduct traffic studies during the school year to better assess the situation.
The Fight for Safer Streets
For residents like Garza, the issue isn’t just about numbers—it’s about preventing future tragedies. Their hope is that continued advocacy will prompt the city to prioritize safety measures before another incident occurs.