Problem Solvers: NE Redmond intersection at the center of community conversation on speed and safety

(Update: Adding video, comments from residents and City of Redmond)

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Neighbors who live near the intersection of Northeast Maple Avenue and Fifth Street in Redmond are demanding the city take action, citing the dangers traffic poses for pedestrians.

"We have a nickname for the stop sign," said Julie Wilson who lives on Fifth Street. "It's the 'Stop and Slide.' It's not a safe intersection. People are taking very risky turns because they've been waiting in traffic for so long."

The intersection is located near Walmart and is a direct outlet of traffic from Highway 97 heading east.

"Many drivers here take a lot of really risky left turns due to the close proximity of the overpass and the speed of the vehicles traveling on Maple,"Wilson said.

She says she has spoken with city officials about the need to add safety features to the intersection.

"We the residents believe that the city and the general transportation fund can afford a few signs. Two pedestrian signs on either side of this intersection are what we want, for now." Wilson said.

Wilson says children are using the intersection to cross to a nearby playground, making speed a dangerous factor. Currently, radar signs are posted near Northwest Canal Boulevard before drivers reach the intersection. Data shows drivers going eastbound at an average 26 mph and westbound 36 mph.

City Engineer Jessica MacClanahan said, "We have reviewed the safety data for that corridor, and it is in a reasonable and safe condition."

The city official said they have been in direct conversation with residents along Fifth Street.

"We conduct speed studies to understand how many cars and at what speed they may be traveling, on any roadway that we have," MacClanahan added. "We also engaged traffic engineering consultants and have field visits which would help better inform the situation again, as we analyze data. And finally, we do review crash data."

Residents are urged to reach out to the city with road and traffic complaints or issues through its website.

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