Council Members Call for Control of Traffic Speeds After Child Injured in Hit and Run

New Britain City Council President Pro-Tempore, Ald. Francisco Santiago (D-5) and Ald. Candyce Scott (D-3) say they are, “deeply saddened and outraged,” about, “the recent hit-and-run incident that occurred on Monday at the intersection of Broad Street and High Street, resulting in the injury of a minor.”

Ald. Santiago said that, “Quality of life for our residents is paramount, and ensuring their safety on our streets should be top priority.”

“We cannot continue to tolerate the rampant disregard for traffic laws that have plagued our city for far too long,” added Ald. Scott.

The Council members’ statement called for, “the pressing need for immediate action to address the ongoing issue of speeding and reckless driving in our community,” adding that,

Despite repeated appeals from the Common Council and concerned citizens, Mayor Stewart and her appointed commissions have persistently rejected the installation of speed humps, citing reasons that remain unclear. The Council has continually advocated for the implementation of effective speed-reducing measures and additional safety mechanisms to enhance pedestrian safety, yet our pleas have fallen on deaf ears.

“The recent hit-and-run incident in the Broad Street area serves as a tragic reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive traffic safety measures to be implemented without delay,” said Santiago.

Scott added that, “The safety and well-being of our community must not be compromised any further. We implore Mayor Stewart to reconsider her stance and take decisive action to address this critical issue.”

In February, a number of members of the public spoke in a public session of the Council about speeding and safety concerns for pedestrians in the city.