As we continue to gather information from residents, here is a summary of key themes from the on-going Community Pulse Umfrage. It’s not too late to submit your own responses!
Primary Concerns
1. Speeding
Overwhelming concern across urban and rural areas.
Common on state highways, rural roads, near schools, and in neighborhoods.
Specific roads mentioned repeatedly: Washington St, Royal Oak Rd, Oxford Rd, Dutchmans Lane, Rt 50, Rt 33, Dover Rd.
2. Lack of Sidewalks & Bike Infrastructure
Many neighborhoods lack continuous sidewalks, crosswalks, or bike lanes.
Some sidewalks abruptly end or are obstructed.
People are forced to walk on roads or in ditches.
Rails-to-Trails praised, but connections and access points need improvement.
3. Unsafe Intersections & Visibility
Intersections like Dutchmans & Aurora, Rt 50 & Dover Rd, Oxford Rd & Bypass are called out as dangerous.
Poor visibility due to shrubs, parked cars, or road design is a common issue.
One-way stops and confusing layouts also noted.
4. Aggressive & Distracted Driving
Frequent mention of drivers not stopping at signs/lights.
Tailgating, passing on the shoulder, and using phones while driving are big complaints.
School zones and pickup/drop-off times highlighted as problematic.
Environmental & Community Observations
Several residents noted deep ditches, no shoulders, and narrow roads as physical dangers.
Noise pollution and revving trucks also mentioned.
A few emphasized that they live on quiet streets but feel cut off from walkable destinations due to surrounding road conditions.
Positive Notes
Some neighborhoods were described as safe, quiet, or low-traffic, especially cul-de-sacs, dead ends, and small communities.
The Rails-to-Trails system received praise for walkability and safety (though noted as not ideal for cyclists due to frequent crossings).
Common Requests
More and better sidewalks.
Traffic calming (e.g. speed bumps, lower limits).
Pedestrian signals and marked crosswalks.
Enforcement of speed limits.
Bicycle lanes or shared-use paths separate from traffic.
Community education or signage on pedestrian and cyclist rights.
A Summary of Top Concerns
Speeding and parked cars obstructing visibility
Lack of sidewalks and crosswalks
Dangerous intersections and fast traffic
Bike lanes are either missing or unsafe
Safe Zones:
Cul-de-sacs, closed neighborhoods, and trails are seen as safer
Skate parks and specific protected paths were appreciated
Common hopes and needs:
More dedicated infrastructure (e.g., bike lanes, sidewalks, and pedestrian crossings)
Lower vehicle speeds and better enforcement of speed limits