Kansas City Implements Rumble Strips to Combat Dangerous Driving in Crossroads District

Kansas City Takes Action Against Dangerous Driving

Kansas City, Missouri, is stepping up its game when it comes to improving safety on the streets, specifically targeting the problem of illegal sideshows and street racing that have become a troubling trend in the Crossroads Art District. The city council is raising a flag of warning to those who think they can get away with reckless driving, particularly around the busy intersection of Southwest Boulevard and Broadway Boulevard.

The Solution: Rumble Strips

In an effort to tackle this issue, Kansas City officials have now installed rumble strips at the aforementioned intersection. These strips are not just your ordinary road features; they are designed to create a rough surface that can cause vehicles to lose traction, especially if they’re speeding. Councilman Crispin Rea, who represents the 4th district at large, has spoken about the effectiveness of this strategy. “It’s a fairly effective and cheap strategy that makes it impossible for these vehicles to gain friction,” he explained. “I’ve heard that it will actually tear and deflate the tires.”

Community Concerns

The emphasis on safety is not just a bureaucratic decision; it reflects the real concerns of Kansas City residents. Councilman Rea acknowledged the public’s fears regarding safety, stating, “It is a quality of life issue. It’s a public safety issue, and we need to be responsive as a city government.” This is a sentiment shared by many in the community, who are eager for a solution that not only curtails dangerous driving but also restores peace to their neighborhoods.

A Shift in Sideshow Activity

The city had previously implemented a similar solution a few blocks away in the bustling Power and Light District, and local business owners have begun noticing a difference. Woody Bardwell, an employee at recordBar, mentioned the change: “Before they put rumble strips in, it was pretty bad, like [sideshows] almost every weekend night. Whatever they did down here with the rumble, it stopped it a little.” While the streets have quieted down in some areas, there are signs that the sideshow activities may be shifting locations rather than disappearing entirely.

Hope for the Crossroads

One business owner in the Crossroads, Bryan Arri, is optimistic about the new changes. His venue, Fern Bar, is located right at one of the most targeted intersections and has been impacted by the rash of sideshows. “One of the things we’ve noticed is the perception of the Crossroads has gone down a little bit over the last few years in terms of safety and crime that’s been happening in the area,” Arri said. With the installation of the rumble strips, he is hopeful that the situation will improve.

Looking Ahead

Arri expressed excitement over the city taking proactive steps to enhance the district’s environment: “We’re really excited to see that the city is investing in the Crossroads district and really making sure that we stay one of those districts that people really love coming to, especially with the holiday season coming up.” As the year winds down, the push for a safer urban environment feels timely and essential.

Continued Efforts from the City

Kansas City officials are not stopping here. They have plans to tackle even more trouble spots with the installation of rumble strips in the coming weeks. With ongoing projects aimed at improving safety across the city, the hope is that residents will soon enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere in areas that have been most affected by dangerous driving. As the city continues its mission to create safer streets, the community’s voice remains a crucial part of the conversation.